How It Works

A steam engine runs on boiling water.

A fire of coal or wood heats the water, and the boiling water makes steam.

The force of the steam pushes a piston up and down. Gears change the motion of the piston into the round-and-round motion of the wheels on tracks.

Fun Facts

The first railroad line to carry people opened in 1825.

Not everyone liked the new ways of traveling. One scientist thought that high speed train travel could make the brains fall out. Some farmers didn't like trains because the noise and smoke scared cows and horses.

Coloring Pages

Arts and Crafts

Tin Can Train
Click for a list of materials and instructions.
The pieces are simply stuck or clipped together. Most of the parts you'll need for this model-making project are ready and waiting in your recycling bin. From FamilyFun.com