Two million riders and 40 years of V&T Railroad legacy in Virginia City
Submitted by editor on Thu, 05/21/2015 - 1:43pm
Looking good at 40 is not a problem for the Virginia & Truckee Railroad, based in Virginia City. Dubbed “Queen of the Short Lines,” the V&T’s history goes back to 1938 when a 17-year-old Robert C. Gray was a passenger on the last V&T excursion to Virginia City from Carson City, Nev.
Today riders of all ages take the scenic and historic ride as the journey relives the history of Virginia City, Gold Hill and the American west. Starting May 23, that 35-minute roundtrip continues to fold in bonanza folklore from Nevada’s late 19th century mining boom where it became the richest place on earth.
“Following that last ride in 1938, the rails were torn up and the route to Virginia City abandoned, some thought for all time,” Tom Gray, owner of the V&T Railroad, said. “Shortly afterward, now 35 years old, my dad began acquiring the old right of way and started rebuilding the legendary V&T. It was an impressive task and one that he accomplished with great pride. On July 2, 1976 he reopened the line with vintage steam trains and original V&T equipment, just in time for the Nation’s bicentennial celebrations. And we’ve been proudly running the trains and keeping the tradition alive since.”
Passengers start the journey from the original 1870 V&T Passenger Depot and Museum at 165 F Street, three blocks from Virginia City’s main street, C Street. The 35-minute roundtrip follows the rails from Virginia City to Gold Hill and back. No reservations are required for regular excursion trains. Seven daily departures begin at 10:30 a.m. and run through 4 p.m. Visit VirginiaTruckee.com for specific departure times.
Adult fares $10 for diesel trains and $12.50 for steam trains. Children ages 5-12, $5 and under 5 years, ride for free. Comfortable shoes and clothing are advised. Parking is free.
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