What made the Virginia & Truckee Railroad the most famous steam train in the world?

Built in 1869, the V & T connected Carson City and the Carson Valley with the richest city on earth at the time, Virginia City. It was only fitting that the "Queen of the Comstock" be the birthplace of one of history's richest railroads.

Queen of the Short Lines

Over $1.5 million was spent to build the original 16-mile line. V & T engines were decorated with gold leaf. Her wooden coaches were fit for kings. The V & T was the only railroad ever to carry her own weight in silver and gold, along a route with enough curves to total 17 complete circles.

The age of the automobile caught up to the train But even when her rolling days were over, Hollywood kept her legend alive. More than 100 movies and television shows feature the V & T.

Getting Back on Track

No wonder folks want to ride the "crookedest railroad in the country" again. Check this site for news about the debut of a new video on the life and times of this world-famous steam train, narrated by another well-known character, the Ghost of Mark Twain. And read on to find out how you can help bring the V & T back.

Railway Reflections International Art Expo

July 17 – August 17, 2008, the Northern Nevada Railway Foundation will present a unique collection of events, shows and sales to raise funds for the V & T reconstruction. Here are three ways to add your support:

Artists - Enter your railroad-related work in the juried, month-long exhibit and sale, with over $5,000 in awards.
Art-, train- and fun-lovers - Get the latest updates on the expo's art shows and sales, concerts, movies, plays, exclusive dinners, tastings, railroadiana show and sale, golf tournament and more. Then mark your calendar.
V & T Supporters - Click here to make an advance donation.

For more information, you can also call 775.885.6833.