Discover activities for the whole family at Railroad Days Sept. 19
Little barrel rides are one of several activities kids can enjoy at Railroad Days, held Saturday, Sept. 19, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., at the Marquette Depot and Information Center. (NIT file photo)
By Audrey Posten, North Iowa Times Editor
Immerse yourself in Marquette’s railroad history Sept. 19, as the Marquette Depot Museum and Information Center presents its annual Railroad Days celebration from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
The event kicks off at 10 a.m. with caricature drawings by local artist John Mundt, along with little barrel rides for the kids.
The Hole in the Sock Gang 1880s street theater group will perform at 11 a.m., with the bad guys attempting to rob the train. Watch to see if they’ll get away with the money.
At 1 p.m., Jim Teaser, a 36-year telegraphy veteran for the railroad, will demonstrate how the telegraph works. During that time, former railroad workers will also share some of their stories and remembrances.
New this year, a movie about steam locomotives will be shown at the Driftless Area Wetlands Centre, just up the road, at 2 p.m.
Throughout the day, attendees can take tours of the Depot Museum’s extensive collection of railroad memorabilia and Marquette historical items. Food will be provided by the Marquette Cafe and Bar and served by the Marquette American Legion Post 305.
“It’s a good time for all ages,” said Deidre Vick-Froehlich with the Depot Museum. “Kids can enjoy the barrel rides and caricature drawings, while the older people listen to stories. Some guys from the railroad come up from Dubuque every year.”
Vick-Froehlich said Railroad Days is one of the kick-off events to the area’s busy fall season.
“It’s a great event we have, but it’s also a springboard for other activities,” she said.
Railroad Days can also be a stop on a day filled with other activities, like shopping and antiquing and visiting parks and other museums, she added.
“You can start here and check us out, then go from there,” she said.
