submitted by Donna Digennaro, Clermont Historical Society
There is something romantic about the idea of riding on a train as it goes swaying along on the tracks. Some say the motion and the clickity-clack sounds just make one so relaxed that sleep comes very easily. But is that realistic?
Come to Clermont’s Historic Village (490 West Avenue) on Monday. February 13th at 7:00 PM and Rick Cronin may just answer that for you. Rick is calling his presentation, “Clermont’s Tavares & Gulf Railroad” and he will discuss how Clermont became a destination on the original Tavares, Apopka and Gulf Railroad as well as how it was later made the headquarters for the Tavares & Gulf Railroad in 1890. Rick is the author of several books including The Tavares & Gulf Legacy: A World-Class Railroad Museum in which Clermont’s history with the railroad is covered in some detail.
Clermont’s Historic Village is open to the public for tours every Saturday and Sunday from 1:00 to 4:00 PM. All the buildings are available to tour either at your own pace using informative narratives at the push of a button or with a personal guide. That includes the 1920’s era train depot where Rick will be giving his talk.
With that being said, if you love trains, are a model train buff, or just interested in the history of your community; we invite you to the Clermont Historic Village on February 13th at 7:00 PM to hear what Rick Cronin has to say. We look forward to seeing you there!