April 21st, 2022 by WCBC Radio
With a blast from her mighty whistle, Western Maryland Scenic’s historic steam-powered ambassador of Allegany County and the State of Maryland will be inaugurated into regular service beginning Friday, May 6 at 10:30 am.
While No. 1309 has made multiple trips for special charters and a brief appearance during 2021’s holiday events, this debut into regular service is the crowning achievement of WMSR. After enduring seven years of restoration, complete with more twists and turns than a blockbuster movie, the dedicated crews are ready to share this one-of-a-kind artifact with the world.
The public is invited to WMSR’s Cumberland Station located at Canal Place for remarks from local leaders, WMSR, and a ribbon-cutting dedication of No. 1309 for the family of principal WMSR founder, Jack Showalter. Departure to the mountain town of Frostburg will be prompt at 11:30 am.
The celebration will continue at the station starting at 6:00 pm with live music courtesy of the rhythm section of the local band ‘Surrender Dorothy .’At 7:30 pm, the Moonlight On The Mountain excursion will depart for Frostburg, a first-of-its-kind event for WMSR. While sipping their favorite beverages, passengers can enjoy provisions and hors d’oeuvres crafted by WMSR Chef Jamey Baker. Acoustic guitar music by Cumberland Times-News own Greg Larry and David Heinz of Memphis, TN, will provide a lounge atmosphere aboard the steam special. Retire to the Open Air Car to hear the sights and sounds of No. 1309.
Evening tickets aboard the Moonlight On The Mountain are just $60 for Table Car seating. Limited seats are still available in the newly-renovated Great Dome – Ocean View. Seating in the Lower Dome Lounge – The Empire Club is $70 and $80 in the Upper Dome Lounge. Coach and Open Air Car seats are still available for the 11:30 am inaugural departure on the Frostburg Flyer. All tickets are available at www.wmsr.com or by calling 301-759-4400.
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