Anybody remember that old folk song? I grew up with folk songs. While my peers were rocking to Jimi Hendrix or Donny Osmond, I was listening to Elizabeth Cotten, Burl Ives, Pete Seeger, and James Taylor. I later found out that Elizabeth Cotten lived in Syracuse in her later years — just a hop, skip, and step from my home. She wrote the song “Freight Train, Freight Train” when she was eleven years old.
She also played her guitar “backwards.”
I found this video online, a clip from a special 1985 series “Down Home.” Boy, does this bring back the memories!
The whole reason I’m thinking of that song is because we went on a train this week — the lovely Adirondack Scenic Railroad. Last time I was on that train was a few years before that Down Home video, lol.
The train’s baggage car doors were open and a metal gate bolted across. We could really take in the scenery as we moved along.
It was a great trip. I love train travel. I took a few videos and additional photos, and will be placing them on my travel blog sometime this week.
Have a good weekend, friends!
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July 21, 2012 at 4:25 pm
I haven’t been on the train yet but hope to soon. Just wish it was less expensive. Glad that you guys had fun!
July 22, 2012 at 1:35 am
I love trains. It’s definitely one of the things I miss about living in Germany. My uncle is an engineer and he still drives passenger trains. When I was little he used to let me ride with him in the locomotive! Love the scenic pictures.
July 23, 2012 at 12:09 pm
Wonderful video. I did not know Elizabeth Cotten, though I have sung the song. Thank you.