Steam into History

The Northern Central Railway, the route Steam Into History operates over, was a vital transportation artery during the American Civil War. The line ran between Harrisburg, Pennsylvania and Baltimore, Maryland providing a direct north–south route in which federal troops and supplies were shuttled to the southernmost reaches of Union territory. The railroad's strategic importance was understood by the Confederates and as such it was targeted by rebel troops during Robert E. Lee’s Invasion of the North in June 1863.[3] Railroad bridges, rolling stock, and telegraph lines along the Northern Central right-of-way were ruthlessly destroyed by the advancing rebel army.[4][5]

The railway was pressed into military service shortly after the Battle of Gettysburg, transporting wounded troops to distant metropolitan hospitals in York, Baltimore, and Harrisburg. Several months later, President Abraham Lincoln and other dignitaries traveled over the line on their way to commemorate the Soldier’s National Cemetery at Gettysburg where Lincoln delivered his now famous address.[6][7] The president and company boarded their private train in Baltimore and journeyed north over Northern Central tracks to Hanover Junction where they changed trains to continue West. The depot at Hanover Junction where Mr. Lincoln changed trains still stands today and is on the National Register of Historic Places.[8] Much of the surrounding countryside has remained relatively unchanged since Lincoln’s historic journey.

Steam Into History operates a ​2 ¹⁄₂-hour round trip excursion from New Freedom to Hanover Junction, where a brief layover provides an opportunity to explore the museum at Hanover Junction Depot. The railroad also operates a shorter, one-hour round trip excursion from New Freedom to Glen Rock.[9]

The trains feature 4-4-0 steam locomotive York, a faithful reproduction of a typical American Standard engine common on North American railroads in the mid to late 19th century. York was custom built by the Kloke Locomotive Works in 2010–2013.[10][11] Its design was based on O’Connor Engineering blueprints for the replica Union Pacific No. 119 and Central Pacific "Jupiter" locomotives (both engines currently reside at the Golden Spike National Historic Site in Utah).[12]

17 York

The Steam into History train typically consists of three passenger coaches, one of which is converted to an open air car through the summer and fall. During each excursion, interpreters in period wardrobe offer historical commentary for passengers. Their narration provides insight into the importance of the railroad and its neighboring communities during the Civil War years and thereafter.[13] Special events planned for train rides throughout the year, such as musical entertainers and character reenactments, help support and complement the historical atmosphere of the railroad.[14]

Steam into History's train facing South towards New Freedom.

The York about to depart Hanover Junction. The locomotive burns oil as an alternative fuel for wood.

• List of heritage railroads in the United States
• List of Pennsylvania railroads
• Northern Central Railway
• Hanover Junction, Hanover and Gettysburg Railroad

• Steam Into History