Each year, the Wilmington & Western offers a course in the history and operations of the railroad. This fascinating insider's look also touches on aspects of the national rail transportation system and gives students a unique perspective on a modern heritage railroad.

In this course, students learn the history of the Red Clay Valley Line and its right-of-way and track maintenance programs. The historic rolling stock and motive power used on the Wilmington & Western Railroad will be reviewed with special emphasis on how steam and diesel locomotives operate and are maintained. In addition, we'll examine state-of-the-art railroading practices including signaling and train control. Federal Railroad Administration rules, regulations and inspections required for all railroads, including the WWRR, are reviewed.

As part of the course, a Saturday afternoon visit to the WWRR Enginehouse is included. Students will review restoration projects, as well as be permitted to inspect the other equipment and facilities at Marshallton Yard. An opportunity to operate one of the WWRR diesel locomotives within Marshallton Yard limits under the guidance of a WWRR qualified engineer is included in the visit.

Please check back again soon for an announcement regarding the dates and times
of the next Rail Road 101 course.