In many of the posts below,everyone has been talking about what will and won't work in regards to what makes a successful railroad. to me,these are the essential elements( in no particular order)

1. Equipment that looks like it belongs to the era you are trying to represent;

2. Locomotives that are right for the tonnage, line requirements,weight of rail,turning facilities and maintenance;

3. A marketing plan which clearly outlines who your market is and a plan to exploit that market;

4. Boarding areas that are equipped with adequate signage,restrooms and knowledgable personnell (paid or volunteer).

5. Find your "hook" ( what would make people want to come back to ride again,and tell others about you)

6. A plan to actively become a valued member of the community;

7. Making your employees your best salesman( proper uniforms,courteous personnell)

I'm sure the rest of you can come up with a few more,and perhaps this can become a template on which everyone can draw from. The more successful all of us are,the more aware the public is of us and our mission,the better off all of us will be. I look forward to hearing from everyone.

It isn't tangible or quantifiable, but a distinct personality that is reflected in all aspects of the organization which permeates the experience of the visitor can make a difference in terms of repeat business.

I have ridden on tourist railroads that were generic train rides, which failed to create distinct memories no matter how professionally operated. I have also ridden on some pretty loose and amateurish operations which had a personality I will never forget - and which I will return to much as I will visit an old friend from time to time.

You can have a personality and be well operated - which in the case of Texas State, is pretty much a given - but give some consideration as to what kind of person your railroad should be.

dave