I got to work the Xmas train today. Though you all might like some photos. I was an elf at one of the Lionel train layouts in the “Reindeer” Box Car
Here she comes into town: What a sight!
A blast from the air horns announcing the arrival of “The Santa Train #1” sends my daughter scampering for cover!
Here is the ABA lashup:
But in fine rail fan fashion she bouned back and was ready to give the train a good intro:
Cool, What loco’s? F7’s? Was that in Joplin Mo? I heard KKOW"S “Live on location” their.
This is the famous “Reindeer” box car that I would eventually be “working” in as a guide elf.
Grandma and daughter take it all in.
The Caboose:
I will be viewing this train in Pearl, IL Sunday afternoon. It is beautiful in the evening.
Santa makes his appearance!!
I snag Mr. & Mrs. Clauas for a quick photo! Hey, being a elf has it’s privileges!!
Very nice photos, thanks for sharing. Thats a nice thing for the railroad to have for the kids.
And now some photos of the work area… hehehehe
And here is the last one for the night, and yes, that’s me waving at the far end of the layout. I basically made sure the control station for the layout didn’t get “played” with or bumped. And you KNOW it was killing me not to run that throttle!!! I was a great time and I would like to thank all the folks who put this train on the track. If you do happen to catch it, take special notice of the plaque that list many of the sponsors. Some that we all know: Kaydee, Walthers, Woodland Scenics… and at many more that I can’t seem to remember atm. As well as the many volunteers it takes…… And of course, KCS who does this all for FREE! They handed out bags of goodies, free coco, and other treats. Just an unbelievable event.
Cool. Enjoyable photos. Thanks.
I love to hear of these trains. It’s so warming to hear of their exsistance and I wish we could see someone’s in Indiana. There are Coaches with Santa, but nothing decorated. And certainly nothing with a layout in it.
…And not a mention of the birthday boy.
Here is some addional info from the KCS website:
KCS’ 2008 Holiday Express
In its eighth annual run, Kansas City Southern’s (NYSE: KSU) (KCS) Holiday Express train will bring Santa Claus and his elves to visit 23 stops in 21 communities in eight states throughout The Kansas City Southern Railway Company’s (KCSR) service territory, including Louisiana, Texas, Mississippi, Arkansas, Oklahoma, Missouri, Kansas and Illinois. In addition to being a free, public event, the Holiday Express has a charitable component.
At each stop, KCS will make a contribution of Walmart gift cards to the local Salvation Army to provide warm clothing for children in need. Thanks to contributions from KCS’ employees, vendors and friends, KCS raised $126,200 to purchase gift cards - a nearly three percent increase over the 2007 campaign, despite current concerns with the economy.
“On behalf of Kansas City Southern and the communities we serve, we are most grateful to our employees, vendors and friends, who have made such generous contributions during these uncertain times,” said KCS chairman and chief executive officer Michael R. Haverty. “We hope the Holiday Express project will help to make a difference in the lives of children in need this holiday season.”
Special thanks to major sponsors including Michael and Marlys Haverty, ALSTOM, DST Systems, Inc., Greenberg Traurig, LLP, Gulf Coast Rail Group, Inc., Kansas City University of Medicine & Biosciences, Mid-America Car, Inc., Partners N Promotion, TranSystems Corporation, Walmart and Watco Companies.
Led by KCS’ South
Here is info from the web site and the schedule. And I think they are F units - Yes??
Kansas City Southern Information
KCS’ 2008 Holiday Express
In its eighth annual run, Kansas City Southern’s (NYSE: KSU) (KCS) Holiday Express train will bring Santa Claus and his elves to visit 23 stops in 21 communities in eight states throughout The Kansas City Southern Railway Company’s (KCSR) service territory, including Louisiana, Texas, Mississippi, Arkansas, Oklahoma, Missouri, Kansas and Illinois. In addition to being a free, public event, the Holiday Express has a charitable component.
At each stop, KCS will make a contribution of Walmart gift cards to the local Salvation Army to provide warm clothing for children in need. Thanks to contributions from KCS’ employees, vendors and friends, KCS raised $126,200 to purchase gift cards - a nearly three percent increase over the 2007 campaign, despite current concerns with the economy.
“On behalf of Kansas City Southern and the communities we serve, we are most grateful to our employees, vendors and friends, who have made such generous contributions during these uncertain times,” said KCS chairman and chief executive officer Michael R. Haverty. “We hope the Holiday Express project will help to make a difference in the lives of children in need this holiday season.”
Special thanks to major sponsors including Michael and Marlys Haverty, ALSTOM, DST Systems, Inc., Greenberg Traurig, LLP, Gulf Coast Rail Group, Inc., Kansas City University of Medicine & Biosciences, Mid-America Car, Inc., Partners N Promotion, TranSystems Corporation, Walmart and Watco Compani
One word - [wow]
Mainetrains [banghead]
Thanks to all the KCS volunteers who made this a special show in Pearl, IL today. A big crowd turnout for such a small remote rural area. Hope to see you next year.