National Train Day – May 7th

“All Aboard” as America celebrates its love for trains today, Saturday, May 7, 2011 — the fourth annual National Train Day.

“National Train Day” commemorates the day the first transcontinental railroad was created and the subsequent 142 years of connecting travelers coast-to-coast.

This year also celebrates the 40th anniversary of Amtrak as America’s Railroad. They have chosen Gladys Knight to be this year’s spokesperson; famous for her 1970’s hit song “Midnight Train to Georgia”.

In St. Augustine, we celebrate Henry M. Flagler — founder of what became the Florida East Coast Railway and the contribution he made as a key figure in the development of the eastern coast of Florida along the Atlantic Ocean.

And so, here’s to the train; with deep respect and appreciation for everything you have contributed to St. Augustine and our nation — Historic City News salutes you.