Staff Reports
The merger of Canadian Pacific Railway and Kansas City Southern and a 4-year absence may have contributed to the smaller crowds as the Holiday Express Train “Rudy” rolled through town on Monday.
“They had about 1,300 this year,” said Jefferson and Cypress Bayou Model Railroad member Norman Buel. “It was way down from previous years.”
But area residents still lined up around the block to visit the holiday tradition.
Three rail cars of model trains, Santa’s, and other Christmas decorations were open for the free tour. Various locals, all dressed as elves, volunteered their time to shepherd people through the displays.
Santa was also on-hand to hear the requests of children of all ages.
Buel said he was planning on writing CPKC about next year’s event and offer to help promote the train’s visit.