Rails To Paradise

Lots of snow here in Morton. Depot project is in a holding pattern while we deal with a boundary adjustment issue. My introductory article on the the Japanese and Japanese Americans who worked in the Washington timber industry from about 1890-1942 was recently published in the COLUMBIA magazine. I have been busy with researching the book on the same subject and continue to find very intriguing information. The theme is to tell some of the story about the experiences and contributions the Nikkei made to the state's economy and fundamentally, that it be more well known and documented.

Clark wanted me to pass this on to you:

I was recently advised that the work has commenced on the reconstruction of the Nisqually River bridge at Park Junction.  This work is scheduled to continue through the summer and into early fall.  Tacoma Rail operations and Mount Rainier Scenic will then have access to Morton and Elbe respectively.

If you havent had the opportunity to ride the old Tacoma Eastern, you should definately take the Train to Trek ride from Tacoma to Eatonville.  The trip is about an hour and a half long with interpretation provided on the way.  The train stops at Eatonville where buses take you to Northwest Trek for lunch and a Trek tram experience through the wilderness.  Check the calendar page for dates and go to the Northwest Trek website for ticket ordering information.