JAMESTOWN, Calif. – Railtown 1897 State Historic Park (SHP) is looking for interested volunteers to help support THE POLAR EXPRESS™ Train Ride experiences that will return this holiday season. More than 8,000 guests are expected to experience THE POLAR EXPRESS™ Train Ride in 2018 at the historic park in Jamestown which requires a dedicated staff supported by more than 50 amazing volunteers per day to make this magical experience happen. Interested adult volunteers are encouraged to attend one of three Volunteer Open House events that are scheduled on August 18, September 8 & 29, 2018 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Park.
No previous experience is necessary to volunteer, and orientation and training will be provided. Volunteers will conduct a number of festive activities that include welcoming greeters, line monitoring, cocoa pouring and serving, hospitality and general event support, and more (depending on skills and areas of interest). The Volunteer Open House provides potential volunteers the opportunity to talk with the leads of the program who can answer questions and provide additional insight.
As background and showcased by a festive locomotive decked out to reflect Christmas magic, the staff and volunteers at Railtown 1897 SHP go to great lengths to re-create the holiday experience depicted in the classic children’s book of the same name by Chris Van Allsburg. The holiday experience includes keepsake souvenir tickets, hot cocoa, a festive holiday cookie, Santa Claus sightings and even the coveted silver bells – the first gift of Christmas for those who still believe in Santa Claus.
Railtown 1897 SHP is known for its century-old steam maintenance shops and train rides, including popular rides behind the famous “Movie Star Locomotive” Sierra No. 3®. In addition to weekend excursion steam trains (April through October) and THE POLAR EXPRESS™ Train Ride experiences, Railtown 1897 SHP offers daily tours, roving interpreters, and many special events.
Interested volunteers can download a volunteer application at www.railtown1897.org or call 209-984-4408 for more information.