Remarks to the Metuchen-Edison Historical Society, April 15, 2021

As prepared for delivery.

“Why the Northeast Corridor is the Greatest Rail Line and Metuchen the Best Station.”

I’m so excited to be here today. It’s a bit of a homecoming for me — even if only virtually. Plus I have the opportunity to talk about two of my favorite subjects: Metuchen and Railroads.

So, I have a brief presentation on “Why the Northeast Corridor is the Greatest Rail Line and Metuchen the Best Station.” It’s unbiased as you can see.

I like to make these presentations fun. After all, we’re talking about railroads.

As you may know by now, I am originally from Metuchen. My fondness for trains began on the platform of the Metuchen train station, where I would go with my mom and my brother to meet my dad as he returned from New York. I bothered the conductors enough that they finally started giving me their used tickets, some of which I still have.

Some years later, I was a history major in college. Around this time, I also became interested in photography, so it was the perfect storm. About 20 years ago, I created a website about railroads and their history, Railfanning.org.

Then, my hobby truly spiraled out of control, and I began writing books. Now, it may never end!

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