September marks the 150th anniversary of the completion of the C. A. & C. Railroad from Cleveland, through Akron and Knox County, to Columbus. For many years, the new line, which later became part of the Pennsylvania Railroad system, provided fast and efficient transportation north and south through Ohio. By 1916 there were 12 passenger trains stopping daily in Mount Vernon on this line, plus six more on the new B. & O. line here. It was the golden era of railroad travel in America.

On Wednesday, September 6, the Knox County Historical Society will join in the celebration of this 150th anniversary with a presentation by KCHS trustee and Centerburg-area historian, Gloria Parsisson. Her illustrated program will highlight the growth and decline of railroad service through central Ohio over nearly a century. The meeting will begin at 7:30 p.m. at the Knox County Historical Society Museum, 875 Harcourt Road in Mount Vernon. It is free and open to the public, and all persons interested in area history are invited to attend. For more information, call the Museum at 740-393-5247.