This full-day program will take place entirely at the facilities of the Valley Railroad Company in Essex, and will feature an excursion by train and boat.  The course will examine railroading historically--with special attention to Connecticut railroads and the railroad along the lower river valley.  With this historical perspective, the impact the railroad has had on the area will be described. This will include examination of some of the railroad artifacts found along the line. Then we will cover what it takes to maintain and operate historic trains, including a tour of the Valley Railroad shops and equipment. The techniques of steam locomotive operation will be demonstrated and we will learn of the opportunities and challenges of operating a tourist railroad along the Connecticut River.  The class will then take a narrated excursion on the Essex Steam Train and Riverboat including a box lunch on the Becky Thatcher Riverboat.