SLO Train Day draws crowds

In celebration of railroad history, the Railroad Museum in San Luis Obispo hosted SLO Train Day on Saturday.

“It’s fun to come over on my days off and help out,” says Dan Manion, a volunteer who has trains in his blood. “My grandfather worked on the Great Northern Railroad.”

Manion and others worked with the city to open the Railroad Museum a few years ago, and loves getting the chance to spread his passion for trains and their history. “There are a lot of children that are interested in our history of trains,” he says. “There’s something magical about them.”

Children and adults alike spent SLO Train Day learning, playing, and exploring the museum and platform, which still serves Amtrak trains daily.

“The railroad was and us such an integral part of the development of our county,” says Carl Hovanitz, the museums president. It ties in all the local history to a focal point.”

The railroad first reached San Luis Obispo in 1894. When oil was discovered in the area in the early 1900’s, freight cars were converted to carry the oil to Avila Beach and beyond.

If you missed out on the events, be sure to check out the Central Coast Railroad Festival in early October.