I'm about to become the general manager of the SPCRR (Society for the
Preservation of Carter Railroad Resources). We operate, maintain and
restore a short horse drawn railroad at the Ardenwood Historic Farm in
Newark, CA. The entire farm is set in the 1890's. We have costume
"regulations" modified levis, suspenders etc.
 
One of my goals is to introduce first-person in a major way to the public
that we serve - we haul several hundred passengers per day - April-Nov.
 
I've been working up my character - Silas Witham - who came to California
in 1872, and am developing his time line, etc. Silas made his debut in
August, and has generally been very successful. Biggest problem I've
found is working with mixed groups - K-3 school children and seniors on
the same train. I tend to slide in and out of Silas based on the
passenger mix.
 
I would like any references to material that would help me and my group -
some are enthusiastic; some reluctant. My idea is to have a series of
clinics through the closed season, and to distribute appropriate material
through our newsletter.
 
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