2017-11-16 05:19:05
WELCOME AND ALL ABOARD! Please join me as we celebrate the might and majesty of Pennsylvania’s railroads and our commonwealth’s storied railroading tradition in this edition of the Happy Traveler. Countless communities can trace their origins to Pennsylvania’s railroads, as they were the framework that encompassed the commonwealth from north to south and east to west. There is no place on this continent more associated with railroads than Pennsylvania. Our history is steeped in the tradition of railroading and the many extraordinary innovations and people that transformed this nation into an economic titan. Did you know that in 1845 the Montour Iron Company of Danville was among the first in the nation to produce the t-rails that are still used today on virtually all railroads throughout the world? Just nine years later the world-famous Horseshoe Curve near Altoona opened. With this engineering marvel, a trip from Philadelphia to Pittsburgh, which normally took four entire days, was reduced to a mere 15 hours. The Curve was designed by Delaware County native John Edgar Thompson and built entirely by the hands of hard-working Pennsylvanians in just three years. Urban adventures, outdoor escapes, or historical hotspots more your style? We’ve featured some of the best with a fresh take on classic must-sees and the yet to be discovered — all here in Pennsylvania. Our commonwealth also offers some real hands-on experience at one of our many iconic railroad or trolley museums. Looking for a leisurely hike or some adventurous biking? We have nearly 1,850 miles of former rail lines that live on through the rails-to-trails program, which is more than any other state. These and many other railroading marvels and adventures are waiting for you to stop by and explore. Climb aboard, sit back, and experience the wonder, excitement, and journey that can only be delivered by rail as the roar of our historic trains transports you back in time. Don’t forget to check out the Pennsylvania trivia Crossword Puzzle to find out even more ways to Pursue Your Happiness in our great state. Tom Wolf, Governor
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