Nut Tree Railroad Revived VACAVILLE, CA -- Revival of the Nut Tree in Vacaville was hammered home early Tuesday as a golden spike was driven fast and straight to secure the tracks that will guide a fully restored Engine No. 5 late next month. Vacaville Mayor Len Augustine needed only two swift swings to get the job done as dignitaries looked on and cameras captured another historic moment at the local landmark, which has undergone some dramatic changes in the last year. Much like a ceremony four decades ago, the "golden spike" ceremony marked a new era for the Nut Tree. In 1962, the arrival of Engine No. 5 was celebrated with a similar event. With a new owner and master developer on board, the Nut Tree train will run again. "I declare the Nut Tree Railroad done," boasted Roger Snell, the man behind the redevelopment of the old landmark and restaurant into a new shopping mecca, restaurant complex, office park and entertainment center that features Nut Tree Family Park. Home of Nut Tree Railroad and several other original amusement park rides, the park occupies just one corner of once was the huge Power family ranch and business. - The Vacaville Reporter
So the engine isn't really a steamer? Unless I've missed something, the web site doesn't say. Boxcab E50
Wow, does that bring back memories! I remember going there with my Grandparents and Parents many times. First place I ever ate Marzipan.....ummmm ummmm! Still my favorite. And those BIG clown cookies. Think I better go to lunch now. LOL
Funny thing happened on the way into work this morning...I heard an advertisement for the Nut Tree on the radio and it gave a website address. So, check out http://www.nuttreeusa.com/. No pictures, per se, but a fair amount of artist sketches of what they're planning to do.
Like John, I too remember riding that train when I was a young kid. We would always stop there in the mid 60s when traveling from Redding into Larkspur (Marin County). I guess it lost its luster sometime in the 80s or around then... Seems to me that at one time, it was virtually the only stop in Vacaville... that certainly no longer being the case. Nice to see someone keeping some tradition as they apply a new business model and try to make a buck with the facility/land. Kudos to them.
