Description: Having enjoyed our visit to the Boone (IA) Railroad Museum a couple of summers ago, this seemed like an outstanding way to see a little more of the Bluegrass State of Kentucky. To our surprise, we learned that Labor Day weekend was one of two weekends featuring their Civil War Train Robbery, a reenactment of what it was like in Kentucky after the end of the civil war.
A great history lesson, this was fun for children and adults alike. There was a camp set up at the train station with both confederate and union soldiers, which was the case in Kentucky. Surprisingly, two-thirds of those fighting from Kentucky were in support of the union efforts to free slaves while one-third were confederates. Many families had children, cousins and other blood relatives on opposite sides of the war . . . brother against brother was commonplace in Kentucky.
The train ride itself was 11 miles roundtrip and typically lasts about an hour. With period costumed players on board with passengers, we learned much about how the war ended and what men found when they returned home to Kentucky. At one point in our journey, a skirmish broke out, with soldiers jumping the train and robbing passengers. Our train experience lasted about 75 minutes.
At the end of our ride, the players explained the historical context of the reenactment and took questions and posed for photos. In spite of temperatures nearing 100 degrees, we had a great time and would recommend the Civil War Train Robbery which carries with it a $2 special event surcharge on top of the $10 ticket price for adults and kids over the age of 12. Kids two through 12 can ride for just $7. They do offer a $1 discount for seniors.
Reservations are recommended. More information may be found on their website: www.bgrm.org.
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