Here are some thoughts on the "wild west" aspect from an outsider. As many of you know the Sumpter Valley Railroad is chartered as an historic restoration. To that end we are trying to gather up as much original equipment as we can, and to operate an authentic train. What we have found though is that, while history is important to some people, it does not really pay very well. On regular two day weekends, with no special events, we often do not meet our expenses. To try and improve the balance sheet we have "train robberies" on some slow weekends. What we find is that on those weekends we show a positive balance, while the non-robbery weekends it is still often negative. A group that calls themselves the "Gold Rush Bandits" does the robbing, and they do an excellent job. They chase the train on horse back, board the train and find the strong box, "shoot" the lock off and ride off with the "gold". They look the part too, with slouch hats, dirty jeans, and well worn boots. The adult passengers often interact with the "bandits" and love it as much as the kids.
Our situation is not exactly the same as the C&TS, but I think there are possibilities in this. IMHO this would not work for regular trains, but for a shorter run it might be attractive. For one thing, if it is done for every train it becomes hokey and a turn-off for those who want an authentic train experience. Also it needs to be done near a stopping or turning point. Our "bandits" spend our layover near the Sumpter Depot where they can visit with the customers, and even offer free horse rides for the kids. The "wild west town" would fit right into this.
Just a few thoughts from someone else who is trying to fill seats.
Jim Grigsby
Asst. Ops. Manager,
Sumpter Valley Railroad.
