What's unique about our railroad is that until August of 2000 our family had zero railroading, engineering or locomotive experience other than riding other small narrow gauge trains. Our dream of having a backyard railway was realized after talking with a lot of people and taking many rides. We purchased our 12" gauge Ottaway train set in August of 2000 and learned to install the track in our small backyard in Redwood City, California. After 2 months of sawing concrete, digging tree roots, knocking down brick structures and removing play houses we were ready to start the locomotive up for the first time. Our locomotive is a coal fired steam engine, originally built in the 1950's.

The cars were recently rebuilt and repainted. The locomotive came with a tender and 3 cars which carry 12 passengers. We've also added a fuel car, caboose and gravel car. The railroad runs all the way around our house, over a curved trestle and through a tunnel. We enjoy sharing the train and rides with community, friends, family and neighbors.

Train rides are free, and sometimes we do an optional fundraiser for a worthy cause.

Polar Express Train Rides 2007

Saturday December 15th

(Rain date is Sunday Dec 16th)

5pm - 8pm

Rides are Free. There is an optional toy drive to benefit families in need. Bring an un-wrapped new toy for a child or teenager.

Note Events subject to weather conditions (no steady rain)!

For our address you can email us at: train@amsmrp.com

 
The entire Railroad crew (left to right) Ross, George, Rhett, Taylor and Jay
The Chief Engineer, George and the lovely Conductor, Jay.
The very first run on the first day of operation, November 4th, 2000. Don Micheletti (San Francisco Zoo train) at the controls.

Steaming up a 2% grade across the back yard lawn.

Christmas Train Rides

Every year we usually host a toy drive train ride event with the theme of the book and movie "Polar Express".

We will take kids of all ages to the North Pole City and back. Riders can receive a special golden train ticket and a special present.

We will accept un-wrapped new toys for our toy drive, but this is voluntary and not necessary for a ride.

As an option, we are taking contributions to The Leukemia and Lymphoma Society.

For more information email us at train@amsmrp.com.

 

New caboose along with a passenger car that is set up for our Christmas "Polar Express" Toy Drive.

Picture below is of Dodge City, built to 1/2 scale. Signs by Old West signs. www.oldwestsigns.com

 Below is the new town that also serves as storage for some of our rolling stock.
 
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