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Pere Marquette 1225 Steam Engine

History of the Pere Marquette 1225 

Pere Marquette 1225 is a 2-8-4 (Berkshire) steam locomotive build in 1941 for Pere Marquette railway. It is one of two surviving Pere Marquette Berkshire locomotives, the other being 1223 which is on display at the Tri-Cities Historical Society in Grand Haven, MI. The Polar Express train was built from the blueprints of the Pere Marquette 1225 and its sounds were used in the film. As you can see, the Pere Marquette 1225 has a rich history, in fact, it is world famous. 
The Pere Marquette 1225 is still in use today. In fact, you can ride in the famous locomotive. That is exactly what I did today in Howell, MI. As part of the Howell Melon Festival, the locomotive came from its hometown of Owosso (MI) to provide short rides for interested guests. For a small fee, we were provided with an hour ride, along with a short narrative and some local entertainment. The ride was just long enough to experience what train life was like back in the 1940-50’s. 
The Pere Marquette has many events scheduled for this Fall and Winter. The event that excites me the most is the North Pole Express. My family and I are already looking into purchasing tickets for one of the many rides available in November and December. 
Upcoming Events 
Petoskey to Fife Lake Fall Color Tour, October 1
  • Enjoy a relaxing tree-hour ride (each way) while visiting with friends, playing cards, snapping some pictures, or just settling in with a refreshing beverage and snack from our lounge car.
  • Once arriving in Fife Lake, shop at local businesses or grab a bite to eat and take advantage of what this unique town has to offer. There will be information about activities and places to go on board the train en route to Fife Lake.
  • $79 Coach, $109 Caboose 
  • Departure 10 am – Arrival 7 pm
Cadillac to Mancelona Fall Color Tour, October 8 – SOLD OUT! 
  • Enjoy a relaxing tree-hour ride (each way) while visiting with friends, playing cards, snapping some pictures, or just settling in with a refreshing beverage and snack from our lounge car.
  • Once arriving in Mancelona, shop at local businesses or grab a bite to eat and take advantage of what this unique town has to offer. There will be information about activities and places to go on board the train en route to Mancelona.
  • $79 Coach, $109 Caboose
  • Departure 10 am – Arrival 7 pm

Mt. Pleasant to Cadillac Fall Color Tour, October 15 

  • Enjoy a relaxing tree-hour ride (each way) while visiting with friends, playing cards, snapping some pictures, or just settling in with a refreshing beverage and snack from our lounge car.
  • Once arriving in Cadillac, shop at local businesses or grab a bite to eat and take advantage of what this unique town has to offer. There will be information about activities and places to go on board the train en route to Cadillac.
  • $79 Coach, $109 Caboose
  • Departure 10 am – Arrival 7 pm

Pere Marquette 1225 75th Anniversary Excursion, November 5 
  • Enjoy a 3-hour ride to Clarie, MI  
  • Once arriving in Clarie, guests will have 4 hours to spend in the beautiful city of Claire before heading back to Owosso.
  • $99 Coach, $129 Caboose
  • Departure 9 am – Arrival 7 pm

The North Pole Express, Nov 18 – Dec. 18 
  • This event runs every weekend from Nov. 18 – Dec. 18 
  • The schedule varies (see below) 
  • This is a 4-hour round trip adventure
  • After reaching Ashley, MI, guests will step off the train into a Classic Christmas Experience
  • Be sure to dress for the weather as you will be walking around 
  • Prices vary from $39-$79 (see the website for options) 

To find out more about the Pere Marquette and its upcoming events, please visit their website. As you can see from above, these events sell out quickly! If you are interested in an event visit their website to purchase your tickets. 

Contact information: 
Phone: (989)725-9464
Address: 405 South Washington Street, Owosso, MI 48867
Hours: Wednesday – Sunday 10 am – 4 pm

Amber Louchart
Author: Amber Louchart

Amber is the proud mother to four beautiful children, Damian (27), Rosaleigh (14), Carlyn (11), and Naomi (8). Her family also includes four cats. She loves being a stay-at-home mom and feels blessed to be able to care for her children full-time and provide them with so many opportunities through Metro Detroit Mommy. In addition to Metro Detroit Mommy, Amber has a passion for hosting karaoke with Malibu Entertainment.  She enjoys the metro Detroit nightlife especially, singing, dancing and meeting new people.