There was a house in Cumberland that looked like Tara in Margret Michel's Gone With The Wind. It had been turned into a restaurant which was quite good. It was a real civil war era house and it had been used by union soldiers during the war. We saw evidence of their writing on the walls inside as well as a patched hole where a cannon ball had come through. You could rent a room in the house too, but we were already in the motel across the street.

Night time in Petersburg on June 26th

In Petersburg, the Diesels growl restlessly, waiting for their respective runs the next day.


Also in Petersburg, the two steam powered switchers are serviced as they simmer beside the S. Main street.


On the excursion the next day, the heat is oppressive. The windows are open in the coaches, but the train is moving so slowly that not much of a breeze is created.


This old man spent most of the trip sleeping.

Romny and Petersberg

Very near Cumberland, were the small West Virginia towns of Romny and Petersberg. This little motel was one of the most interesting I had ever seen, and totally restored to its original condition, including '50s and '60s decor on the inside. Unfortunately, it was full, and we were unable to get a room. Inspecting many other motels, we discovered no other finds as interesting as this one.


One thing that was interesting was this sign next to the motel, pointing to "Nathaniel Mountain".


Going into Petersberg, we saw an incredible sunset, with rays of light streaming skyward like Mylar ribbons.

Cumberland, (downtown)

Here are some more photos of downtown Cumberland. I did not write down what each building was, but there was some nice architecture. I took these pictures just for you to see because I know you appreciate it.
The sun was at just the right place in the sky to make perfect photographs.


Oh, so common condiments on almost every restaurant table in America.

The Way Back Down

Our train prepares to depart the station, after our nice visit to Frostburg.

On the way down, I get an excellent opportunity to photograph the canal, a small viaduct and a freight train on an adjacent track, all surrounded by mountains.
Back in Cumberland, we saw this building. Do you think the ugly rectangular bit in front was added on? Why would they do such a thing? Either way, a very interesting building.

Up The Hill To Frostburg

The sounds of the working locomotive echo through the valley as we climbed higher and higher into the mountains.

Still climbing higher, we go through a horseshoe shaped curve. The city has fallen away and turned to farmland.

Our destination: Frostburg Maryland. Because of the elevation, it is much cooler here.

As we wander through Frostburg, our steam locomotive is turned on the turntable. She will then be watered and serviced to prepare her for the return trip.

Western Maryland Steam Excursion, June 26th

Early the next morning; Returning to the The Western Maryland Scenic Railroad station.

Western Maryland steam engine number 734 rounds the curve into the station.


Western Maryland railroad's locomotive number 734 is a former Lake Superior and Ishpeming Railroad locomotive cosmetically altered to resemble original Western Maryland Railway locomotives of the 2-8-0 Consolidation type.
The large six axle tender, painted in the historic history of Western Maryland "fire ball" scheme, was originally off of a New York Central 4-8-2 Mohawk.