In the mid-1800's, train service finally came to northern New England, connecting its rural communities to the outside world. The advent of the railroads meant enormous change for the people in these towns.
Trains opened up trade, making it easy to take milk, butter, cheese, turkeys, granite and marble to the far-off markets of New York and Boston. Towns sprung up around train depots, and new gathering places were created, for now politicians and distant cousins, news and even gossip traveled by rail.
Take a fascinating ride back in time as you explore the age of steam and the transition to diesel. Lively stories told by railroaders, townspeople and historians paint a vivid picture of the early days of railroading. Experience the challenge of rugged mountain lines like the one through New Hampshire's Crawford Notch, and visit town and scenic vistas along Vermont's picturesque steel ways. Includes rare footage from the steam era plus breathtaking views of current excursion lines. VHS. 1 hour.
Produced and directed for Vermont ETV by Frederic Fischer. This video was made possible by a grant from The Robert Fleming and Jane Howe Patrick Foundation, Inc.
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