Rail-Fan II to feature Hoosac Tunnel talks
Greenfield Recorder 09/27/2013, Page C02
ROWE — Rare Hoosac Tunnel memorabilia, model trains and photo exhibits chronicling passenger train service are among the highlights of Sunday’s Rail-Fan II celebration, from noon to 5 p.m. in the Rowe Historical Society’s Kemp-McCarthy Museum, 282 Zoar Road.
Last year’s first Rail-Fan drew about 240 enthusiasts from New England states, New York and New Jersey, according to Kathy Heiligmann of the Rowe Historical Society.
On Sunday, rail-history experts, Jerry Kelley and Tim Lawrence will describe how the 4.75-mile-long Hoosac Tunnel was built through the center of the Hoosac mountain range, from 1848 to 1875.
Carl Bryon, a Colrain native and the author of a book on the Hoosac Tunnel, “A Pinprick of Light,” will be coming along with the Boston & Maine Historical Society, bringing copies of the out-of-print book to sell.
“These are rare birds to find,” Heiligmann said. “It’s a very rare opportunity to buy a copy and to have him sign a book.”
The GGI electric locomotives were used to transport thousands of soldiers to their military bases during World War II, and a photo exhibit of GGI passenger service will be displayed. There will also be a “Rail Scale” toy train display.
State Rep. Paul Mark will discuss the possibility of restoring passenger service through the Hoosac Tunnel.
The Amherst Railway Society, the Mass Bay Railroad Enthusiasts and the Berkshire Scenic Railway Museum will be in Rowe, along with the North Adams Historical Society.
Also, recently rediscovered railroad photos and memorabilia from the museum’s collection will be on display.
The requested donation is $5 per person.
Also, a food tent will sell hamburgers, hot dogs and other refreshments.
More information is available online at:http://rowehistoricalsociety.