Eh? Railroad buff to sign, dine on local train

James Porterfield, a well-known railroad historian, author and food critic, this week will call on Duluth, where he will make three public appearances. He writes regularly for “Railfan and Railroad” magazine and also has penned several books, including “Dining by Rail” and “From the Dining Car.”

In his work, Porterfield has uncovered railroad recipes that were closely guarded in their day. He recalls the days when many railroads prided themselves on their fine dining, complete with china servingware, real silver utensils, crisp linens, fresh flowers and white-glove service.

Porterfield will sign books at the Book Store at Fitger’s from 4-6 p.m. today and at the gift shop of the Lake Superior Railroad Museum, in the Depot, from 4-5 p.m. Saturday. After his second book signing, Porterfield will board the North Shore Scenic Railroad’s dinner train for a ride and meal from 5:30-8 p.m. Saturday. Tom Hanson, owner of the Duluth Grill, will prepare the dinner, using local organic produce.

The meal will harken back to the days when many regional railroads operated their own local farms, ranches, orchards and bakeries in their respective service territories.

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Tags: life, eh, books, food