AAPRCO

Private Rail car Tours and Events

The American Association of Private Railroad Car Owners is pulling into St. Paul Union Depot on Tuesday, September 18th for AAPRCO’s 2018 Annual Convention.  Eight of the nation’s most luxurious and historic rail cars, referred to as Private Varnish, will be arriving behind Amtrak train #7 - the Empire Builder - and will be at the station through the following Monday.  For the first time in the group’s history, there will be two new events that will allow members of the public to tour these beautiful cars and for a few the opportunity to dine as First Class guests reminiscent of the Golden Age of Railroading.

Private rail cars were once the prestigious monogram of the wealthy and influential. They were the polished brass, inlaid mahogany and marble rides of railroad barons and the captains of industry.  Owners included Cornelius Vanderbilt; Louis W. Hill; Jessie Woolworth, the heiress to F.W. Woolworth; EF Hutton and his wife Marjorie Merriweather Post, daughter of Post cereal company (General Foods) founder Charles William Post; author Lucius Beebe; and Henry Ford.  What were once enjoyed by only the 1% of their day, are now available for rentals, touring and, in the case of this week’s AAPRCO Convention, everyone with an interest in railroad history and fine dining.  

On Saturday, September 22nd the cars parked at Union Depot in St. Paul will be open for public tours.  The price is $10.00/person and the event will run from 12:00 noon to 4:00 p.m.  Hosts will present the unique history of each car and show off its special features.  Tickets available online and at the station.  Tours start in the waiting room boarding area.  

Sunday, September 23rd presents a rare opportunity to tour the cars and enjoy a special historic, railroad-themed, sit-down brunch. This Trans American menu is inspired by CRAVE Executive Chef Jeff Rottinghaus and features classic recipes from railroads that once spanned our nation from the Gulf Coast to the Twin Cities.  The brunch is $125/person and includes adult beverages.  Reservations for both events can be made online at www.kcc-llc.com.