"...if anyone has bolted together a mechanism with just fifty per cent of the steam locomotive's solid spiritual satisfaction, he hasn't filed for a patent yet."

In the early 1800’s, a new sound echoed across America. It was the steam whistle, flying along atop a steam locomotive, and with these incredible machines came a great step forward in American technology. From tiny contraptions wheezing along at little more than a brisk walk's pace to huge modern machines blasting through town at over 100 miles per hour, the steam locomotive’s 150 years of service completely revitalized our country’s travel and commerce.

As it so often happens, however, technology continued to progress, and by the middle of the 20^th century the steam locomotive was replaced by more efficient machinery. The diesel and electric locomotives that continue to power our country’s rail system may be more economically desirable, but they’ll never match the steam locomotive for character and sheer “wow” factor.

As our world continues to make great advances forward in technology, we at the American Steam Railroad think it’s important to take a look back at how we arrived here. While the steam locomotive can be cantankerous, uncooperative, and sometimes just plain mean, it also inspires and amazes people like no other machine can.

In 2005 a group of engineers, businessman and railroaders came together to start the American Steam Railroad Preservation Association. Our goal was not just to preserve and operate historic trains, but to make them relevant to today’s society. More than just a train trip, we hope to be able to provide an experience, and offer a glimpse of what travel was like on this country in the days where railroads were the country’s modern mode of transportation.

We continue to search out new ideas and opportunities in our efforts to bring steam railroading to the public. We cannot, however, do it alone. Therefore, we need your help! I urge you to consider becoming a member of our organization, and help us on our mission. Rest assured that if you join us on this quest you'll become one of an elite group of people responsible for making sure steam, vintage diesel, and historic passenger trains will keep running in the 21st century. This is my personal invitation to you: join us and help keep our railroad history alive for many years to come. It’s been an exciting trip thus far, and I assure you, the train is only leaving the station. We’ve got a long and wonderful trip to look forward to and we hope you'll join us on this history making journey.