RailLines Blog

The use of railroad ties dates back to the beginning of America’s steam train history in the 1830s. These heavy blocks of wood were the backbone of railways for almost 2 centuries. Discover all there is to know about these important railroad materials, including their uses, modern railroad tie alternatives, and even how to repurpose…

The role of a train conductor can be a demanding but rewarding career path. Discover if you have the right interests and skills and if the life of a train conductor is something you’d be able to pursue.  Origin of Train Conductors The origins of train conductor positions date back to the earliest days of…

What’s the difference between toy trains and model trains? Model trains are built to scale; essentially, they’re miniature versions of life-size locomotives that have been proportionally shrunk.  If you’re new to model training, understanding model train scales and their track compatibilities can seem intimidating. But with our help, we’ll help narrow down which model train…

Celebrating a birthday is a special part of childhood development. Aside from helping them feel valued and loved, birthday parties give kids the chance to socialize with friends or family outside the walls of a classroom.  If you’re a parent of a train-loving child in need of inspiration for their next birthday party, you’re in…

A house is only a home if you fill it with items that represent you. If you live and breathe trains or railroad history, railroad spike decorations are a fun, but subtle and practical way to share your love of the hobby throughout your space.  Add some old-fashioned railway charm to your home with these…

The railroad industry is ripe with interesting and obscure facts about the steam train. After all, these massive machines are arguably one of the most important inventions of the modern age. Discover some of the most impressive railroad and steam train facts to add to your train knowledge.  General Railroad & Train Facts Let’s start…

There are so many sounds that we associate with the train: the rumble of the engine; the click-clack of the wheels along the tracks; the screech of the brakes; but maybe the most popular, the choo-choo of the train whistle. The train whistle is the universal sound of the locomotive. But did you know that…

Strasburg Rail Road is best known for its steam-powered train rides through Lancaster’s scenic farmland, but did you know the train route passes right by the county’s oldest graveyard?  Most passengers rarely think twice about passing Carpenter’s Cemetery during the day. But at night, as the daylight slips away aboard the Halloween train, there’s something…

Understanding railroad safety might not be high on your priority list, but it should be. Making risky choices around railroad tracks can result in devastating consequences. And train tragedies happen much more than you probably think. In the United States, a person or car is struck by a train every three hours. Keep yourself and…

Toy trains are a timeless childhood pastime. For generations, they’ve been bringing excitement to playtime. For some of us railfans, that passion never leaves. Whether you’re a parent looking to find railroad toys for your kids, or you’re a collector looking to expand your trove, discover some of the top model & toy trains below. …

The caboose is an iconic symbol of America’s railroad history. For over a hundred years, this style of train car traveled at the rear of trains across the country.  From their origins as simple platforms to their evolution into fully-equipped crew quarters, explore the fascinating history of the caboose and its impact on the American…

 There’s nothing better than sharing a romantic experience with someone you love. Strasburg Rail Road, offers a large selection of rail-based activities and dining options for you and your significant other. Looking for some railroad romance or simply a fun excursion? Read to explore 6 romantic train rides and activities you and your partner will…