Special rail excursions bring joy to riders and support hospice care in Aroostook County
PRESQUE ISLE, Maine – A weekend of scenic rail excursions in Aroostook County with Maine Northern Railway provided memorable experiences for passengers while raising over $13,000 for a local hospice.
On Friday, September 25, the railway welcomed students, clients and staff from the Central Aroostook Association, a school and adult services organization that supports individuals with special needs. Passengers travelled by bus from Presque Isle to Ashland, where they were greeted with commemorative tickets before boarding the train for a rail excursion through northern Maine.
One of the highlights of the trip was crossing the Sheridan trestle, where riders marveled at the sweeping views from high above the landscape.
Saturday's activities focused on fundraising for the Aroostook House of Comfort, the only inpatient hospice home north of Rockland, Maine.
As morning fog lifted, the first train departed Fort Kent at 9 a.m. and travelled south along the Fish River corridor. Passengers spent 90 minutes taking in Aroostook County's early fall colors before reaching Soldier Pond, where the train reversed direction for the return trip.
A second excursion departed Fort Kent at 11 a.m., heading north along the St. John River. The train travelled nearly as far as Frenchville before returning to Fort Kent, giving passengers views of the river and surrounding autumn scenery.
"These excursions are about more than trains. They're an opportunity to bring people together, support organizations that make a real difference, and give back to the communities where we live and operate, said Brad Peters, General Manager of NBM Railways. "We're proud to partner with groups like the Central Aroostook Association and Aroostook House of Comfort and to help create meaningful experiences while supporting important local causes."
Perfect weather and strong community support contributed to the success of the fundraiser. With assistance from volunteers from United Way of Aroostook, both excursions sold out, with a total of 436 tickets purchased.
The event raised funds for the Aroostook House of Comfort, helping support the organization's mission of providing compassionate end-of-life care for patients and families throughout northern Maine.
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About NBM Railways
Headquartered in Saint John, N.B., NBM Railways is comprised of three short line railways: New Brunswick Southern Railway, Eastern Maine Railway and Maine Northern Railway. Together they provide the most direct rail connections between Atlantic Canada and the northeastern United States. Through partnerships with other major railways, NBM Railways cargo is delivered to destinations across North America. With an extensive and diverse fleet and a reputation for excellence, safety and reliability, NBM Railways is well equipped to meet customer needs ranging from freight transportation and distribution to maintenance and mechanical services.