sam shortline schedule 2022

What special Sam train rides are available in 2022?

Special SAM train rides for 2022 include the Murder Mystery Dinner trains, Wine and Cheese tasting trains, Thomas the Tank Engine, and 20th-anniversary specials. The season kicks off on Feb. 12 with the popular Valentine's Day dinner train. The romantic two-hour ride leaves from Georgia Veterans State Park at 6 p.m. and returns at 8 p.m.

What's new at the SAM shortline?

Jan. 25-CORDELE-Twenty years ago, the SAM Shortline train made its first public excursion from Cordele to Plains. This year, in addition to the regular excursions to Plains and Archery, the SAM is planning many special trips guaranteed to provide safe, fun adventures.

What is the SAM shortline excursion train?

The SAM Shortline Excursion Train is a memorable ride in climate-controlled, 1949 vintage train cars. Regular weekend trips explore rural landscapes and the historic towns of Americus, Plains, Leslie and Archery, depending upon the schedule.

What specials are planned for 2022?

Other specials planned for 2022 include Wine and Cheese tasting trains in April, July and October; Plains, Trains and Fireworks on July 2; Trips to the Peanut Festival in September, and several holiday trains. This year the Murder Mystery Dinner Trains will depart from Americus in April, June and September.

When did the Sam Shortline pass to the DNR?

Loans defaulted, mergers happened, the Ga DOT intervened and ultimately the train passed to the Ga DNR in 2000. After a hiatus, SAM Shortline was reborn. Two years of careful planning, track rehabilitation, and equipment acquisition allowed passenger trains to begin rolling down the historic mainline again.

Where did Jimmy Carter stop on the SAM shortline?

Most of the SAM Shortline excursions include a stop in Plains, Ga – Jimmy Carter’s hometown. You can certainly eat lunch here, there are two great hometown restaurants. But, with two National Historic Sites and plenty to see, you’ll be glad that you ate on the train before stopping.

What does Sam stand for on the train?

The Train’s History (and how it got its name) SAM stands for Savannah, Americus, Montgomery, as well as the name of the line’s founder and president, Colonel Samuel Hugh Hawkins, a prominent 19th century Sumter County capitalist.

Why did Sam Hawkins organize the Americus Preston and Lumpkin Railroad?

Sam Hawkins and others organized the Americus Preston and Lumpkin Railroad in 1884 to ensure that Americus would continue to dominate the region’s trade. The AP&L would be Georgia’s only railroad constructed entirely with local capital.