History Center to Host “Polar Express Experience” December 6

A unique backdrop for your holiday or family pictures will help raise money for the Santa Clarita Valley Historical Society on December 6, when the Society holds its first-ever “Polar Express Experience” from 1 to 4 p.m. at the Santa Clarita History Center.
Families – and individuals – will be able to have their pictures taken by professional photographer and Society volunteer Josh Premako in front of the 125-year-old Mogul 1629 steam engine, which will be dressed for the holidays. Aside from the professional photos, visitors are welcome to bring their own cameras to take pictures with train conductors and the caboose, which will be open for tours during this event.
A special part of the afternoon will be readings of the classic “The Polar Express” by SCVHS Vice President Meredith McGowan, who is a librarian in the Los Angeles area. Chairs and blankets will be set up on the dock near McGowan, who will be reading at half-hour intervals throughout the afternoon.
“The story of The Polar Express, with beautiful words and illustrations from Chris Van Allsburg, is a feast for the imagination. He has a knack for capturing the interest of children from 0 to 110! The holiday season will come alive with this magnificent book.”
“It’s all about the importance of understanding,” McGowan continued. “Engaging a child in storytelling through books starts the process of inquisitiveness and wonder that we so desperately need right now.”
Tours of the Saugus Train Station Museum will also be conducted (The Museum will be closed to the public during this special event). Ticketholders will be treated to hot chocolate and cookies in front of the station, and every child will be given a keepsake gift to commemorate the event.
Tickets are $25 per family (up to 8 people) and are available on Eventbrite (search for SCVHS Polar Express Experience). Funds raised at this event benefit the Society’s operational and restoration costs. The SCVHS is a 501.c.3 nonprofit organization.