Christmas train displays still chugging along

Arthur Kristofik stands by his train at the America's Best Value Inn Hotel in Holts Summit. Kristofik said this is the 10th year for the Christmas train exhibit.
Arthur Kristofik stands by his train at the America's Best Value Inn Hotel in Holts Summit. Kristofik said this is the 10th year for the Christmas train exhibit.

While Christmas and trains would appear to have little in common, that hasn't stopped the two from being romantically linked for almost as long as trains have been around.

For generations, some families have placed model trains on a round track around their Christmas trees.

The tradition may have stemmed from as far back as 1830 when the Best Friend of Charleston became the first regularly scheduled steam locomotive passenger train in the United States. That maiden voyage, all six miles, took place on the South Carolina Carna and Railroad Company. The date was Dec. 25.

Now, Christmas-themed trains and decorations can be bought at local stores around Christmas. The big screen also has paired the two with charm and mystery in books and movies such as "The Polar Express."

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