Celebrates 150^th Anniversary with Golden Spike Ceremony and other events

The ceremonial "golden spike" was on display at the commemorative event.

            The Colebrookdale Railroad Preservation Trust celebrated the railroad's 150^th anniversary of inception Saturday, September 14. The day was filled with community engagement events that led up to Golden Spike Ceremony and then a 1920's themed soiree in the evening.

            The Golden Spike Ceremony acknowledged the history of the railroad as well as the future endeavors of the historic railroad that meanders through the Secret Valley of Berks County. A scenic, lush countryside that is cloaked in history, Native American culture and unique geological formations.

State Representative Marcy Toepel, 147th, takes her turn at driving the gold spike along the tracks as other dignitaries await their turn.

            In 1865, a band of Civil War soldiers gathered at the banks of Manatawny Creek. In four years, the soldiers built the engineering marvel known as the Colebrookdale Railroad. The project was completed four months after the transcontinental Railroad unified the east and west of the United States. The Colebrookdale Rail connected early iron-making industries with American colonies.

            The story of pioneers and patriots can be heard in the whispering wind that moves through the trees of the Secret Valley. This iron rail connected the people with the heart of our nation through the engineering power of the steam locomotive.

Linda and John B. Haines IV of Marlborough Township attending the 1920's them- ed "soiree" capping off the events celebrating the 150th anniversary of the Cole- brookdale Railroad.

            The 150^th year commemoration celebrated the achievement of coledale construction and the rebirth of this iconic railroad.
            Many government officials took part in the ceremony. The Honorable Marcy Toepel, Representative of the 147^th district and the Honorable Madeline Dean of the 4^th Congressional district were both in attendance. In addition, Borough Council member Frank Deery of Boyertown and Council member Donald J. Lebedynsky of Pottstown took part in the celebration as well as several other officials and the Montgomery County Commissioners. Each official took a turn at driving the ceremonial golden spike into the iron rail.

            Christian Y. Leinbach, Chair of the Commissioners of Berks County gave a closing remark at the event. "The railroad is all about connection. It connects two counties, two boroughs and communities in between… it connects the present to the past."

            B.J. Peterman, the Project Manager of the Railroad gave this writer insight into the detailed work being done to bring this project to fruition. He explained it is a way to preserve Pennsylvania history and create economic stability and community involvement. He also explained that the beautiful antique stained glass windows on display at the event, came from old buildings in Pittsburg and will be installed in the future station. They are incredible examples of Americana artwork.

            The gas lamps that line the railyard provide a historic ambiance. Peterman explained that the gaslight installation was completed Friday for the ceremony on Saturday.

            The Colebrookdale Railroad will provide a unique opportunity for a heritage-based economic development. The rail will invite visitors to discover the historic and recreational assets of the Schuylkill Highlands.

            A recent report by the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR), Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED), and the Natural Lands Trust for sustainable development in the region is based on the capitalization of heritage and thus catalyzing economic development. The objective is to create a heritage rail oriented tourist destination with national recognition to stimulate economic growth and the preservation of history.

            The Boyertown Rail Station and Welcome Center is estimated to be a $3.5 million dollar project. Sponsorships and a $1.5 million dollar grant from DCED will assist in paying for the endeavor.

            In addition, the project is investing in area youth. A goal is to teach the next generation the art and value of the restoration trade. The plan will put money back in the community and create jobs.

            The objective is to make Boyertown one of Pennsylvania's great downtown destinations in the heart of the Secret Valley.