(The Promontory Chapter NRHS issued the following news release on February 21.)
OGDEN, Utah – The Promontory Chapter of the National Railway Historical Society (NRHS) is inviting all railroaders and railroad enthusiasts to join them in re-living that great event in railroading glory, and our nation’s history as they, join East with West at Promontory Summit, Utah. During Golden Spike week (May 8 thru 13) a variety of fun and educational Golden Spike related celebrations are developing around Utah’s Golden Spike Empire.
All week:
Union Station, Ogden offers a special two-for-one all-week admission pass to their impressive package of five museums and two art galleries, including: Utah State Railroad Museum and Wattis-Dumke Model Railroad, Eccles Rail Center, Natural History Museum, Browning Firearms Museum, Browning-Kimball Car Museum, Myra Powell Gallery of Art and Gallery at the Station (Look for more events in planning here during the week.)
Historic OSL (UPRR) Depot, Brigham City is open all week for visitors. Brigham City is the gateway to the Golden Spike site, located about 40 miles from Promontory, and the Depot has been beautifully restored to its early 1900’s glory. The historic structure serves as the headquarters building for the Golden Spike Association.
Golden Spike National Historic Site, Promontory is open all week to receive history buffs, rail fans, families, and friends to experience the spirit of railroading. Beginning May 10th, the crown Jewels of the rails make their triumphal entry, Locomotives CP 60 the “Jupiter”, and UP 119. These two steam locomotives, meticulously recreated from their original specs and dedicated at Promontory on May 10, 1979, are still hand-fired using their authentic fuels of wood and coal. Their steam, smoke and graceful lines bring the life back to this remote spot, where 137 years ago, dignitaries and laborers alike
buzzed in tents and private cars. The locomotives will operate daily for the remainder of the season.
May 10th:
137th Anniversary Celebration of the Great Event
Season’s entry of the Jupiter and 119; Be part of Andrew Russell’s famed “East meets West” or “Champaign” photograph, as we re-create one of the most recognized photographs in history; Music, food, and historic entertainment and the annual traditional anniversary program all culminate in the Reenactment of the Driving of the Last Spike ceremony. The day is framed in a stirring presentation and retreat of the historic 20-star American Flag.
More events and special promotions are being planned. To keep up to date with the excitement and for details of local accommodations, specials, etc., keep an eye on us at www.theunionstation.org/goldenspikeevents.htm, or just check out the home page for www.theunionstation.org and click on the Golden Spike Events link.