Seven Wonders of Connecticut – Essex Steam Train

photo is from their website

by News Channel 8′s Tricia Taskey
Posted May 13, 2008
6:43 AM

Essex (WTNH) _ It’s a unique way to enjoy the beauty of the Connecticut River Valley, a one-of-a-kind journey that’s also a learning experience.

“It’s an experience. It’s a family fun experience,” says Bob Bell, Essex Steam Train president. “It’s a joy for us to see parents bringing their little ones along — Look, it’s steam engine.”

People have been climbing aboard the Essex Steam Train for 36 years now for the steam train-river boat experience. It starts with a trip on a 1920′s steam train, one of only three in New England.

“The cars also represent the 1920′s so you’re really riding with a nice rock back and forth so it’s a sweet ride and very nostalgic,” Bell said. “On the train they can see the Connecticut River beautiful Connecticut River and its unspoiled views. There’s coves, little bridges. There’s a lot of wildlife they can spot.”

After a ride on the rails it’s time to set sail on the Becky Thatcher. Another interesting aspect of this trip is this is the only steam engine/riverboat connection in the country.

While cruising the Connecticut River we saw famous sites like Gillette Castle, Goodspeed Opera House and the swing bridge. On this trip we also caught a glimpse of a bald eagle and saw some prime riverfront properties.

“There’s a lot of cool historical places on it,” Deanna Marra said.

Marra and her mom Carmen of Cheshire learned lots of interesting things on their experience.

“They actually put the coal on by hand, so someone’s actually putting the coal on the train,” Carmen said.
“Like the 1920′s…”
“Yeah, it’s not a machine.”

The best part for Tahesia Thomas of Ivoryton and her daughter? “Getting to see the history with my daughter and showing it to her, and being able to tell her things I went to school field trips to see.”

“What did you like most about the trip?”
“The boat,” daughter Tajanae said. “It was fun.”

An interesting experience we consider to be a wonder of Connecticut.

The Essex Steam Train & Riverboat Ride runs only on weekends until June, when they offer daily trips.