COALS

Buckeye Limited Convention - triannual event: This event was held in 2023 and is scheduled to occur every three years. The event brings together fellow railroaders and the public to learn about different aspects of railroading through participation in seminars that are hosted by railroad experts in their field of expertise. Vendors also participate in this event, allowing others to see the latest in equipment and products. This event also allows others to pass along new ideas, techniques and concerns related to railroading. We provided the public the opportunity to see rail equipment at work and to ride if they choose to. In 2023 we had over 350 participants from 17 plus states and three countries over the 5-day event, which was managed by over two dozen volunteers. The seminars were later placed online, at no cost, for public consumption. Our goal for the convention and all future conventions is to continue to educate those new and old who are interested in railroading.

COALS holds nearly a dozen operating meets and activities each year bringing the public and those interested in railroading to our facility for gathering, communing and learning. Our operating activities normally run from April through November and are mostly held during extended weekend periods but can be made available during the week when adequate volunteer assistance is available. These individual events, usually attended by as little as 15 to as many as 200 people, are used to teach individuals different railroad operating techniques while also providing the opportunity to ride on a train. Some of the learning activities include the use of block signaling systems as well as dispatch operation and card order sessions. Not only does this provide for others to learn different railroad dispatching techniques but it also provides a historical perspective of railroading. Other activities include group outings for youth like Boy Scouts and Trail Life. In 2023, COALS hosted their first Trail Life weekend, where nearly 50 youth and their parents participated in an overnight stay where we worked with the youth to learn about railroads, their hazards and operations, and in 2024 we will host a railroad merit badge event for the Boy Scouts of America where we anticipate over 180 youth will be in attendance. We have in the past and will continue to host the public for the Coshocton County Fall Farm tour. The last time we participated was in