The Van Buren Regional Genealogical Society will be taking a look back at one of the most memorable trains ever to have lumbered through Van Buren County with a presentation set for September 20.
The organization says there were once big plans for the “Fruit Belt Railroad,” as it was originally envisioned as an electric interurban line. However, the project was fraught with years of contract disputes and property right-of-way issues. The Fruit Belt Line eventually did open as a rather roundabout steam line that rambled through Kalamazoo and Van Buren counties toward Lake Michigan. It would its pass its way through orchards and vineyards, and a whole generation of Van Buren County kids remembers waiting to hear its whistle.
Now, the Genealogical Society will host Keith Howard, a digital preservation specialist for the Kalamazoo Public Library, to talk more about the history of the line. His presentation will be on the 20th at 11 a.m. at the Hartford Public Library.
Anyone who wants to relive old memories or simply learn some interesting history is welcome to attend for free.
