Thompson Square
Oct 15, 2012
Stoney Creek Records duo Thompson Square will once again board the "Santa Train" this year, to deliver gifts and Christmas cheer to families throughout the 110 mile Appalachian mountain trek. The tour will begin on Saturday, November 17th in Pike County, KY, travel through parts of Virginia and conclude in Kingsport, TN.
The event will be in its 70th year this winter, as Thompson Square, Santa Claus and several volunteers deliver 15 tons of toys, candy, clothing and other treats to the thousands of families along the route- many of whom have made the experience an annual tradition. Past "Santa Train" helpers have included Allison Krauss, Wynonna and Naomi Judd, Patty Loveless, Travis Tritt, Kathy Mattea, Rebecca Lynn Howard, among others.
The very first "Santa Train" hit the rails in the 1940's, and delivered gifts to children who would not be expected to receive any other gifts during World War II, due to either their family's finances, or the remote mountain areas' lack of transportation. To this day, many of the Appalachian communities remain remote, with families experiencing financial hardships. The "Santa Train" helps to lessen their burden during the holidays.
To watch a video of Thompson Square (and Santa!) delivering toys to the excited families along the route of 2011's "Santa Train," go to www.youtube.com/watch?v=rQ18Efkow3E&feature=endscreen&NR=1
By: Misti Douglas