Unfortunately, the the Rhode Island-based Greenwich Bay Brass could not accommodate the new member dinner date (Monday, February 20).  But we have a brilliant replacement speaker!  Our February meeting will feature historian, author, lecturer and Varnum Trustee Brian L. Wallin, who will take us back in time for a richly illustrated, and sometimes humorous, ride “Down to the Sea by Rail”.

For most Rhode Islanders, a ride on the railroad means AMTRAK. But did you known that our state was once home to nearly three dozen rail lines in the 19th and early 20th centuries?

Possibly one of the most interesting (and quirkiest) was the 8 1/2 mile long Narragansett Pier Railroad, the pride and joy of the prominent Hazard milling family of South County. Running between Kingston, where it linked up with the New York, New Haven & Hartford RR, the NPRR chugged through the countryside stopping at PeaceDale (home of the Hazard’s mill), Wakefield and at the oceanfront at Narragansett.

Between 1876 and the last run in 1981, the line gave rise to stories and legends. Alas, the NPRR, like all the other short lines is lost to history. Today, it’s route survives as the O’Neill Bike Path.  So, climb aboard!

Please update Scott Seaback (401-413-6277 || scott@ritemps.com) by 5:00 pm on Friday, February 17 if your ability to attend has changed due to the new date. If there’s no change, then you do not need to contact Scott.

TIME: 5:30 p.m. (social hour); 6:30 p.m. (dinner followed by program)
MENU: Steak Tips with Bourbon Sauce & Chicken Marsala, served over Rice Pilaf, with Roasted Seasonal Vegetables, Salad , Rolls & Butter, Coffee and Dessert.
LOCATION: Varnum Memorial Armory Museum, 6 Main St, East Greenwich, RI, 02818.
FEE: $20/person