Residents share nostalgic memories of travelling by train to and from Bloemfontein, recalling family trips, scenic journeys, onboard food, and the sense of excitement and community that came with rail travel in years gone by.
Nomsa Mosia Morule
Oh wow, what a beautiful experience. I travelled to Gauteng by train, introduced by my mom at age 17. At first, it was so scary, but I gradually got used to it. Saw various places, and I still think back and wonder what they look like now. The best and most memorable moments were at church time on the train. I would ask myself daily if those people (church) were hired by the train company. On the train, you had everything, from fruit, snacks, refreshments and food. Called it a stop of all stops.
Henry Barnard
Ek onthou die treinrit Port Elizabeth toe en die skou-trip De Brug toe. Ek het vir 16 jaar op die waens gewerk voor ek oorgegaan het locos toe.
Harry Shawinsky
Die lekker afwagting om op ’n trein te kan slaap en die portier wat jou begasie bring met die trollies en die bedding wat perfek was.
Westy Rose
Ek onthou nog die trein, dit was lank terug, was so 1995. Ek verlang na die trip met die Transkaroo – dit was baie mooi gewees.
Oosie Oosthuizen
Ek het die trein gebruik toe ek ’n vakleerling was en het naweke Bethlehem toe gery. Een naweek na Oos-Londen toe was ’n groot kuier met my, die kinders en ’n pel en sy familie.
Pierce van Heerden
It was a wonderful experience because it carried a lot of good memories, traveling with my grandmother to visit family in East London and other places. It was safe, convenient, and we always enjoyed the packed lunch our granny used to take along for us to enjoy! I remember the excitement as a kid waiting for the train to arrive, waiting on the platform with family and friends.
Compiled by Gypseenia Lion
