On May 3rd, 2025, the historic Niles Canyon Railway became the backdrop for an unforgettable educational experience. The Mission Peak District successfully hosted the Railroading Merit Badge event. Vanji Sivajothy organized the day-long program, with significant support from volunteers, counselors, and community leaders.
This event was made possible through a generous partnership with the Pacific Locomotive Association, Inc., a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization committed to preserving railroading’s legacy.
The Morning Whistle
The day began with crisp air and quiet excitement as families pulled into the historic yard, where locomotives sleep and volunteers bring steel giants back to life. The classroom session began at 8:30 and was led by two passionate Merit Badge Counselors, Mr. Jacob and Mr. Jim, whose knowledge turned gears and pistons into ingenuity and national growth stories.
For the next 2.5 hours, the Scouts were immersed in the science and art of railroading. From the evolution of locomotives to the physics of steel rails, this was no ordinary lecture — it was a deep dive into one of America’s most transformative industries.
Where History Breathes
After the session, the Scouts left their notebooks behind and stepped into the heart of history. With the incredible support of volunteers — Donna, Rich, Tim, Bob, Mark, and others — the Scouts toured the yard and workshop, witnessing the pulse of railroad operations up close. The smell of oil and the clang of tools echoed with purpose.
Then came the moment every Scout had been waiting for: a whole round-trip historic M200 RailBus ride to Niles Station. For many, it was their first ride on a heritage rail line, and the excitement was palpable. As the train moved through the canyon, faces lit up with wonder, cameras clicked, and laughter mingled with the rhythmic sounds of steel wheels on track.
Gratitude on the Rails
This event wouldn’t have been possible without the unwavering support of The Pacific Locomotive Association, Inc., a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that preserves and operates the Niles Canyon Railway. Their team of volunteers didn’t just help — they inspired.
We also thank Mr. Bharth from Troop 132, Mr. Sudhar from Troop 273, and our District Executive, Mr. Colton, for showing up and helping shape a meaningful day.
The Path Ahead
The buzz didn’t end when the train returned. We now have a waitlist of eager Scouts hoping for their own ride down the tracks of railroading. The next step? Collaborating closely with the Pacific Locomotive Association to make this a recurring event In Scouting, we talk a lot about preparing young people for life. Sometimes, that preparation looks like a classroom. Other times, it looks like a boy or girl gazing out a train window, imagining a future of movement, mechanics, and momentum.