All Aboard! Students Treated To A Special Christmas Program Aboard “Ellsworth”

In a unique, cooperative effort among the Ellwood City Area Historical Society, All Aboard Ellwood Inc., and the Ellwood City Library, kindergarten students from North Side Elementary School and second graders from Riverside Elementary School were treated to a special Christmas program aboard “Ellsworth,” the Ellwood City Area Historical Society’s replica trolley.

Mrs. Rachel Biermeyer, an associate Librarian at the Ellwood City Library, read a Christmas story and sang songs with the children during their individual class’s 30 minute session aboard Ellsworth.

The Historical Society’s trolley, sponsored by All Aboard Ellwood Inc., was parked at the respective schools on Tuesday and Wednesday morning, December 19th and 20th, for the events. Chuck Means from the ECAHS, provided and drove the truck to pull Ellsworth to the different venues.

Rachel Biermeyer from the Ellwood Library reads to students

Guided by a “Polar Express” theme, students, clad in pajamas and winter coats, were welcomed aboard Ellsworth, shown a picture and told the story of the actual trolley that operated in Ellwood City from 1908 to 1931.

Mrs. Biermeyer than expressively read them a short Christmas story and led them in an interactive song.

After students were given small tokens provided by AAE Inc., a Christmas ornament and a “Believe” bell, they gathered for a group photo with Ellsworth before continuing with their school-sponsored activities for the day.

Raymond Santillo, Chairman of the Board of Directors of AAE, coordinated the event with the respective schools and handed out the tokens to the students.

“We are blessed to have such great volunteers in these three non-profit organizations, and dedicated educators in our schools who are willing to work together to provide unique opportunities to the children of the Ellwood City Area,” Raymond noted.