Explore North America’s scenery by rail

• Fred Vigeant
  BioRecent Stories

  

  Fred Vigeant is WITF's Director of Programming and Promotions for TV and Radio. Fred manages the schedules for our radio and television platforms. He also analyzes audience research and manages the public affairs program Smart Talk. Previously, Fred was at WRVO in Oswego, NY for 12 years serving in various roles including Program Director and before that Operations Manager. Fred graduated from the State University of New York College at Oswego with a B.A. in Mass Communications and Broadcasting.

The Golden Spike

Take a one-of-a-kind trip through North America on WITF with Great Scenic Railway Journeys: 150 Years on the Right Track, hosted by Grammy-winning musician and storyteller David Holt.

The program kicks off at Golden Spike National Historic Site in Promontory Summit, Utah and shows a historical reenactment of one of America’s greatest transportation accomplishments: the completion of the Transcontinental Railroad in 1869. This monumental feat of construction, which united two railways and made coast-to-coast travel possible, helped bring Americans together just a few years after a war had torn them apart.

Next, it’s off to Verde Canyon Railroad in Clarkdale, Arizona, where rail passengers travel 1800 feet down into the beautiful Red Rocks. Featuring a ride through the old west in luxury accommodations, this scenic adventure allows travelers to connect with friends, wildlife and culture.

Up for an overnight adventure? Then check out the Great Wisconsin Northern Railroad near Spooner, Wisconsin. The only bed & breakfast train in the country, this railway features restored cars from 1950s and offers scenic river views, delicious meals, and time to relax.

Additional adventures include a railway jam session on a trip through the Rockies, a stop at Steamtown National Historic site, and the show visits our region for a visit to the oldest-operating shortline railroad in North America: the Strasburg Railway.

Great Scenic Railway Journeys: 150 Years on the Right Track broadcasts on WITF: June 5 at 10am, June 8 at 8pm, June 12 at 1pm and June 13 at 6pm.

Broadcast of Great Scenic Railway Journeys: 150 Years on the Right Track is part of our June Membership Campaign. Please consider supporting all the great programs you have enjoyed this year and the surprises ahead in 2020.  Make a donation today to WITF.  Be sure to check the variety of thank you items associated with Great Scenic Railway Journeys: 150 Years on the Right Track.  

A collection of interviews, photos, and music videos, featuring local musicians who have stopped by the WITF performance studio to share a little discussion and sound. Produced by WITF’s Joe Ulrich.

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