The Railroad Comes to Falmouth

Monday, Sept 9th, 2024, 4pm (rescheduled from July 18th)

After the Civil War, the railroad extension to Falmouth and Woods Hole was completed in 1872, and had a great impact on Falmouth and Martha’s Vineyard. Large estates were built as tourists were attracted to the beaches and climate of the shore and the islands. A small agrarian community and dying maritime economy was transformed to a summer resort and a business center. Carloads of fresh strawberries and fresh fish were sent north on the railroad and many other businesses were dependent on the railroad. A passenger train, the Flying Dude, ran an express train service by subscription from 1884 to 1916 between Boston and Woods Hole in 1 hour and 40 minutes. Passenger service continued to Falmouth and Woods Hole until June 30, 1959.

Please join us for a brief history of the impact of the arrival of the railroad to Falmouth more than 150 years ago.

Paul Dreyer (3Dec23)

Falmouth Station (1872)                                                  Woods Hole Freight Yard (1872)

Paul C. Dreyer is a Professional Environmental Engineer in private practice with extensive international experience. He is a member of the Falmouth Planning Board and other committees in the Town of Falmouth, Massachusetts.

$20 Non-Members/$10 Members, or donation based ticket, includes light refreshments.

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