A long time reader told me of something I did not know about — A Steamboat Meet on Lake Winnipesaukee starting this weekend on the 12th. I had to go – but now wanting to stay within a two hour drive for a day outing I searched for some lodging. But I do have a limit, and $350 to over $500 just to sleep overnight I have a hard time justifying. So then in checking the weather – today Sunday was to be bad, and as I am starting to write this Sunday afternoon rain is pouring down in great amounts. So hopefully next year.

I often find new adventures on Facebook — and I noted that the Cheshire Railroad Depot in Troy, NH, would be open Saturday – a revised plan was developed – and, was amazing as you will read below.

#6154 — you should recognize that number having traveled on NH Route 12 just below the Vilas Bridge along the remaining Boston and Maine tracks. Three years ago the Cheshire Railroad Depot in Troy purchased the Budd RDC (Rail Diesel Car) 6154, moved “her” to Troy and began restoration. And, let me say upfront, visiting many restored homes, villages, and things of the past — the folks at the Cheshire Railroad Depot have done an outstanding job of accurate preservation.

The station, built in 1847 for what became the Cheshire Railroad (later the B&M) – a line which ran for 43 miles from South Ashburnham, Massachusetts to Bellows Falls, Vermont. An amazing restoration (from a decrepit two family dwelling) was accomplished and with informative exhibits and displays. And now just to the south on 100 feet of track the group laid is the 6154. The Cheshire Rail Trail runs along here, of course.

below the main waiting room of the station as it is carefully restored today. (remember you may click my images for larger views)

Troy had many mills, particularly Troy Mills producing blankets. One display had two postcards reproduced which will give you an idea of what the area was like with the traffic. (you can click to enlarge).

On the top to the right of the station is the old Kimball Hotel built in the 1870s, and the only building in town with a Mansard roof. This view looking north.

The card below is looking south with a train having arrived, and the freight building to the rear.

Below, the freight station today being prepared for additional exhibits.

I then headed to the Budd Car.

the facts above close up (and you can enlarge by clicking}

climbing aboard where the “engineer” would sit, and then looking back out

the interior of the car has been carefully restored (including floor tile arrangement) as to what is original. Half however has been left open for arranging talks and meetings, but one half as you would travel, including the original seats still in service.

here is the hotel as it is today – up the street on the left is the historical society in a building on the right which I visited and shared with you in December 2025.

and here is their upcoming event which you may wish to experience.

but my outing was not over — I had planned some visits on a “long way home.” First I headed to Fitzwilliam on a back road I had never been on before. In Fitzwilliam I picked up Route 119 and headed east to Hinsdale. I may not have been on the stretch between Fitzwilliam and Richmond in over 20 years. NH Route 32 crosses 119 in Richmond, and just west of that intersection I always stop and enjoy the Tramp House

‘I explored around Hinsdale, Deerfield, MA, and planned my timing (having skipped a noonish meal since having fun) to have a very late lunch or early dinner at the Gill Tavern in Gill – a favorite stop. But alas, posted on the door – “Closed Sept 12 for a Private Function.”

In March, when David and I met for dinner after his hike up Mount Greylock, as he was heading back to Boston we ate at the Farm Table in Bernardston. But another option was Zeke’s Bar and Grill at the Crumpin-Fox Golf Club – easy for me to stop at on this trip. I continued north from Gill, turned west on Massachusetts 10, and just before the last northern entrance/exit on I-91 turned off to this secluded location — see map below, and remember this for a quick bite not even forty minutes from home.

and walking up from the golf club, the restaurant is to the left.

view from my table on the deck, and “chicken and cheese wrap” half of which came home with me. I think I heard once that when you get older you do not eat as much – will let you know when I get there.

Nine hours out and exploring and having fun — and planned perfectly to have today to “work” on projects at home while raining. The “take away” here for you–

RAY RECOMMENDS
1 – Visit the Cheshire Railroad Depot in Troy, NH
2 – And, while out explore some more back roads

Stay safe and well, luv, RAY