Bedford Depot Park was bustling with activity on Sunday, September 15, when the Friends hosted the second annual “Railroad Day”. In addition to the Freight House and railcar being open to the public as usual, a variety of railroad-themed activities for both adults and children were provided for the estimated 200+ visitors.
Visitors enjoyed a guided tour of the railcar and Bedford rail yard with historian Bill Deen, and volunteer Sandra Craig explained features of the Bedford-themed model railroad in the Freight House. A crowd on the platform marveled at the skillful close-up magic of “The Magic Railroad Conductor” Dick Miller with partner Dawn Kelley. Henry Carpenter (a.k.a. “Conductor Henry”) delivered train stories enhanced with sound effects to a rapt audience of little faces in the railcar. Outside in the park plaza, volunteers Cynthia Mork, Steve Wetzel and Liz Karagianis assisted families with crafts, bike decorating and railroad “tattoos”. Also helping throughout the day were Mike Shaw, Greg Carpenter, Connor Craig, and Reid Antonuccio. Many youngsters chose the self-guided scavenger hunt, locating items in the railcar and Freight House and learning about railroad history in the process. Children preferring more active amusements enjoyed cornhole and bubble games. Bikeway Block Party events behind the Depot added to the day’s festivities, including two live bands and activities provided by the Bedford Family Connection.
