Todd DeFeo

Hit the rails

May 18, 2003 Todd DeFeo

Whether it be steam or diesel that strikes your fancy, there are plenty of nearby railroad museums for train enthusiasts. Throughout Tennessee and Kentucky, more than a half dozen museums await exploration by anxious railroad buffs.

Engines steam toward Cookeville excursion

May 18, 2003 Todd DeFeo

A few times a year, perhaps only for a few hours, this eastern Tennessee city takes a step back in time to an era when railroads ruled.

Time travels by train

May 18, 2003 Todd DeFeo

Every year, the Tennessee Central Railway Museum offers more than 20 excursions from Nashville to various Middle and East Tennessee cities, including Watertown and Cookeville. The museum is located at the former Tennessee Central Railway’s Master Mechanic’s office on Willow Street.

Crossroads of America

March 31, 2003 Todd DeFeo

I found myself standing at the intersection of two railroads.

What is it about railfanning?

March 25, 2003 Todd DeFeo

It starts with the ringing of at a grade crossing. Then, there’s sound of a whistle blowing in the distance. It’s coming closer. Long, long, short, long – indicating the train is approaching a grade crossing.

Clarksville, Tenn., Railroad Strikes After Money Tightens

January 15, 2003 Todd DeFeo

When the money ran out on the Memphis, Clarksville & Louisville Railroad, employees refused to work and a nearly two-week strike began on Feb. 6, 1868.

Night Moves

August 31, 2002 Todd DeFeo

It’s probably fair to say that I’m a bit of a night owl. And that’s probably a good thing on this trip.

Just Another Whistle Stop

August 31, 2002 Todd DeFeo

I sit in the lounge car, drinking a beer, watching towns fly by like a blur, as if they don’t exist.

This train is bound for Glory … and Washington, D.C.

August 22, 2002 Todd DeFeo

For train fans, the only thing better than watching trains is riding them. And that’s what I’m about to do.