America's romance with rail can sometimes seem an odd and fickle fling, as old modes give way to new. Here in Central Texas, however, the Austin Steam Train Association keeps the trains running on time in a living history museum of real-life rail cars and engines restored to their former glory: a fully operational leisure rail system to afford glimpses into the past along routes of the present, featuring regular treks like the Hill Country Flyer and Bertram Flyer and special event excursions celebrating various themes and holidays. Volunteers here are not mere docents, they are conductors, engineers, and tradespeople restoring decades- and centuries-old rigs and their love of history is as deep as the roots they honor. Their passion is 100% can-do and their only wish is to share it all with everyone. All aboard!
