In the bustle of our everyday lives, Boyertown residents
might not realize the treasure we have right in the midst of our town – The
Colebrookdale Railroad: Secret Valley Line
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| COLEBROOKDALE RAILROAD: DINING CAR |
Riding the Colebrookdale Railroad during the Eerie Limited
tour was a special treat indeed. The dining car was beautifully decorated with the
added touch of table lit lamps and floral décor. Overhead, the speakers came
alive with the tale of the 1908 Rhodes Opera House Fire. This story touched upon
the tragic night of January 13th when 171 men, women and children were
horrifically killed in an accidental fire during the 2nd floor stage
play of The Scottish Reformation. A
kerosene lamp had lit upon a stage curtain, spreading like wildfire. Exits weren’t
properly marked. People panicked. Doors were blocked by the throng of people
seeking escape, tragically trapping those inside. Approximately 400 people had
attended the play. Also, in the realm of this vicious night, fireman John
Graver was killed in another freak accident.
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| Cozy tables with large viewing windows |
In 1908 Boyertown was a small town and in one sweeping
moment, 10% of the town was tragically lost. The aftermath was hard to bear. Most
of the victims had been burned above the waist, fused in one torrent moment. Families
suffered as they laid their love ones to rest. The abundance of bodies had to
be gingerly handled, identified and then laid to rest, a grim prospect indeed.
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| Rolling down the Tracks
Today superstition still holds true with some residents
of Boyertown. Apartments located at the old Rhode’s site are said to be haunted. Numerous sightings have been claimed over the years. Durangos is another hot spot for ghost
enthusiasts.
The Eerie Limited trip lasted approximately two hours.
Surprisingly the train for the most part was a smooth ride considering its age.
The food was delicious. Equally fantastic was the serving crew, who did their
best to accommodate the slightest need. The evening was topped off with a slice
of cake and a few more ghostly tales from local residents. All in all, it was a
pleasant change from a normal Friday night.
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| Tickets Please! |
I’d highly recommend taking a trip on the rails. If ghosts
aren’t your thing, there are plenty of other up and coming themes to choose from. So, support the Colebrookdale Railroad.
It is well worth helping save a piece of history and add to the pride
of Boyertown.
Reviewed by:
Author Tamera Lawrence
Books:
GHOSTS OF MAYFLOWER
Amazon.com
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