10/21/2026
Here's a long-awaited update about our Railroad Day event that took place on September 20th (my apologies for the delay!)
The weather for the 4th annual Railroad Day at Bedford Depot Park was gloomy, but the intermittent drizzle did not deter the 100 or so who turned out, with a few commenting that they make a point of attending each year.
Many families with children enjoyed railroad-themed arts and crafts, assembling a 7-foot puzzle of the B&B engine "Ariel", a museum scavenger hunt, train stories with Henry Carpenter and close-up magic with Dick Miller & Dawn Kelley. Visitors enjoyed tours with Minuteman Railroad author Bill Deen, the large detailed diorama of Bedford's rail yard c. 1955, a working model of a narrow gauge steam locomotive, and other exhibits displayed in the Freight House & Railcar.
Dan O’Brien, overseer of much of the restoration work on the vintage Budd railcar, was on hand to speak with guests, as was Wayne Hagman, who shared his knowledge and collection of railroad lamps and lanterns. Joe Piantedosi, a key figure in the creation of Depot Park, answered questions and solicited feedback about proposed design plans that were on display for the new Depot Park expansion, where the former VFW building previously stood.
The Friends of Bedford Depot Park, who organized the event, are most grateful to the dedicated crew of volunteers (most of whom are Freight House & Railcar Museum volunteers) who's help was indispensable throughout the day, including Greg Carpenter, Bob Clark, Sandra and Connor Craig, Wayne Hagman, Liz Karagianis, Lee Walus, Steve Wetzel, and Alethea Yates.
We are looking forward to next year's Railroad Day, which marks the 150th anniversary of the Billerica & Bedford 2-foot gauge railroad! We'll be planning over the year to make this an extra special event!
Here are some pictures from 9/20!
