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...And loaded with lots of
summer fun! |
Trains have woven their way into the cultural fabric of America. By connecting the United States and opening up new avenues of commerce, trains played a vital role in early American history. The lore of riding-the-rails is prevalent in American literature, art, songs, and movies. From simple to elaborate, model train sets can be found in the homes of train enthusiasts and individuals with a casual interest in the subject. San Antonio is no exception to this affection for trains.
Since 1956, the Brackenridge Eagle has chugged along the miniature tracks skirting the banks of the San Antonio River, as it made its way through one of San Antonio’s most popular parks. Generations of Brackenridge park visitors have ridden-the-rails past the San Antonio Zoo. It has braved several derailments, acouple of collisions, and even a modern-day train robbery during the summer of 1970. On June 15, 2001, the San Antonio Zoo assumed the management and operation of the miniature train.
Thanks to a major gift from Howard and Betty Halff and other generous donors, the San Antonio Zoo added a third miniature train to the San Antonio Zoo’s Depot. The Halffs named the new train The Lukey J after their grandson Luke. Other charitable sponsors of The Lukey J included: the V.H. McNutt Memorial Foundation: Trustees Jack Guenther, Valerie Guenther, and Abigail Kampmann; Charles and Connie Golson; Senator Jeffrey Wentworth; Dr. Laurel Copeland; Craig and Sally Clayton; Gary Mink; Joe and Tina Haynes; Ruth McLean Bowers; Richard M. Kleberg, III; Mary Hobbs Griffith Foundation; and William and Linda Dreyer. Donors received special recognition plaques on the cars and benches of the new train.
The Lukey J made its maiden voyage at a dedication ceremony honoring the generous supporters who helped bring the new train to San Antonio on June 14.
We hope to see you down by the tracks as The Lukey J rolls on down the tracks. All Aboard!
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