As a kid we occasionally went to the US east coast, and along the way found Edaville Railroad. I've been a steam railfan literally since the age of two, but it was always standard gauge, mainline, "Stand outta the way kid" kind of stuff. So Edaville was a real eye-opener for an almost 8 year old.
I think it was Linwood Moody in his
Maine Two Footers, who told the story of his travelling to Togus, Maine on family trips. He used to climb around the Kennebec Central equipment during their layover, and observed something like "It was just kid sized". I don't have the book any more to have the quote maybe exactly right, but it reminded me of the Edaville experience.
So Edaville was a good introduction to narrow gauge, and I wonder for how many other kids as well. Was glad to see in these pics that numbers 8 and 4 were running on that first trip, because those are the two not currently active. We visited again a couple more times, then I had my own family there as well. Was sad to see it go, but with all the great things happening with the two footers in Maine, all's well that is ending well.
Cheers,