Coal-fired steam train number 90 takes off on the Strasburg Rail Road, spewing black smoke as its big wheels turn and clank on the tracks. The powerful locomotive, built in 1924, pulls old fashioned wooden passenger cars, as it takes tourists on a 45 minute ride through tranquil farms in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania.“I like the train,” said a little boy who was staring at the huge locomotive.The Strasburg Rail Road keeps the feeling of yesteryear alive.“We really desire for people to experience early 20th Century steam railroading, like they would have back then,” said Station Master, Steve Barall.Coal-powered trains worked the rails in the United States for 175 years, starting in the 1830’s, and were an integral part of America's westward expansion and industrial revolution.The Strasburg Rail Road is the oldest operating railroad in the United States. Founded in 1832, it is known as a short line and is only seven kilometers long. Short lines connected passengers and goods to a main...
