Note:  Although heavy rains are predicted for Saturday, the Waushakum Live Steamers Open House will still go on.  Their meet continues on Sunday, so that may be a better day to go.  Unfortunately, Brian will probably not be able to attend that day, but visitors are still welcome.

For a unique family outing that will appeal to children of all ages, and fascinate the mechanical “engineer” in all of us, almost nothing can equal a visit to a live steam club. Join us as we make a pilgrimage to nearby Holliston for the club's annual open house. For those of you unfamiliar with the hobby, imagine an old time railroad steam locomotive lovingly reproduced in miniature and burning actual coal to raise a head of steam. But these are not in the small sizes most associated with indoor clubs or the oval under the Xmas tree. Live steam is also known as “hernia” gauge as locomotives are made in scales of 0.75” to 1.5” to the foot (and even larger) and can weigh a ton or more. Crafted by hand from cast iron, steel, brass and silicon bronze, each takes countless hours over many years to build the thousands of parts needed. The sights, sounds and smells make for a captivating experience for everyone that ever visits.

The club we will be visiting has nearly a mile of track on a 40 acre tract of land in a residential neighborhood. While parking at the club itself is limited, most visitors park in the surrounding neighborhoods and walk to the club. There is a cook tent that opens about noon time and, for those that are interested, there is even a dinner hosted at a nearby venue Saturday night. Admission is free, as are rides on the ground loop, though donations are appreciated.

The Waushakum Live Steamers club is located at the end of Arthur St. in Holliston.  Please park in the neighborhood, as the club's parking lot is relatively small.  Please be respectful of the neighbors.

More information about the club, including directions, is available at the club's website: