The Trains May, 2005 issue, featuring Western Maryland Scenic’s 734 on the cover of the Guide to Recreational Railroading, missed a huge issue.
This may be the final year for the WMSR. The May, 2005 Railfan & Railroad article (p. 23) about constructing the hiking trail along the old Western Maryland RR right of way between Frostburg and Cumberland, MD is scary.
Take away the WMSR, or even shorten the route to Frostburg and we’ve lost a treasure.
Please take action to insure the operation of the WMSR. Write area leaders and let them know we travel to reach Cumberland for the experience of “Mountain Thunder.” Tell them why it is important to keep this steam operation intact.
Here are 2 links to cut and paste in your browser:
http://www.whistlestopcafe.biz/id27.htm
www.petitiononline.com/rr2fburg
Thanks,
chuck miller
atlanta
Anyone who is browsing this forum must like trains so I ask of you to show your support for this treasure. Even if you have never been on the WMSrr all the support we as railfans can pledge might sway the powers that be to keep the line open. With all the development in this country, surely a hiking path would be easier to relocate than a railroad. If you are involved in any sort of preservation or restoration, just remember that your favorite spot or tourist railroad or park might be next. The “in” crowd should not have the final say in this matter!
It is an absolute outrage that this wonderful railroad should be lost! This was posted over in the Trains Magazine forums and I have signed the petition. So far, there are 1407 signatures. Hopefully, many more people will sign and it will get sent to the right people, so that the Western Maryland Scenic will continue to operate the way it always has for many generations to come.
1697 signatures. Just signed it.
Are these the guys who have the C&NW rsd4/5 1689?
Paul August
Heather Creek Railroad