In the spring of 1957, the Susanville Elementary Parent Teacher Association (PTA) announced big plans for that summer’s Carnival to be held in Susanville’s Memorial Park. It was a bold concept and to make a permanent addition to the park—a Kiddie’s Train. Charlie Weston and large group of volunteers were in charge. They built a replica of a New York Central steam engine.
On. Friday evening, July 12, 1957 was the PTA’s Carnival. While there was an assortment of activities such rides on Shetland ponies, the train was the star attraction. Over 1,000 people rode the train. It was a busy night since the train could only carry 16 to 20 passengers at a time.
For the remainder of the summer, rides were offered on the evenings of Wednesday, Saturday and Sunday. Though on Sunday afternoon’s rides were also offered. The price ten cents a ride.
At this time, I do not know how long it operated, though I would say probably about eight years. If anyone happens to know that answer or has other information they would like to share, it would be greatly appreciated.
They had a “name the train contest” in which Charlie Whipple had the winning entry.