Essex Steam Train and River Boat with Lunch at the Griswold Inn
We drove over to Essex to ride the steam train and head up the Connecticut River on the river boat. The steam train consisted of an 2-8-2 Mikado type engine and eight Pullman cars from the 1920s. We rode coach class and found it quite comfortable for our journey to the river boat. The train ran along the southern shoreline of the Connecticut River on tracks once belonging to the Connecticut Valley Railroad Line which began operations in 1871. It eventually became part of the New Haven Railroad and the Connecticut River tracks became idle in 1968. The Essex steam train began operation as the Valley Railroad in 1971 after refurbishing the abandoned railroad tracks.
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| 2-8-2 Mikado Type Engine - Essex Steam Train |
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| Coach Class |
The river boat ride was somewhat disappointing as it was a diesel powered excursion boat rather than a steam boat. Still, the scenery was spectacular. The highlight of the cruise for the boys was seeing Gillette Castle sitting high on the bluffs overlooking the Connecticut River.
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| Gillette Castle |
We went to the Griswold Inn for lunch after our excursion up the Connecticut River. The "Gris" began operation in 1776. The atmosphere in the "Gris" is extraordinary. Like Frances Tavern of the same period, the "Gris" is divided up into a tap room and several dining areas. Fireplaces and old, well-worn furniture and antique prints make this a quaint cozy place to relax for a fine meal. George Washington did not sleep here; however, he would have most likely stayed here if he were in Essex in 1776.
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| Griswold Inn -Essex |
Looks like you're having a great time with Ann & the boys :)
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