On page 95 of the September 1933 Fortune Magazine there was an ad for the Chesapeake and Ohio's air-conditioned passenger trains. The C&O regularly ran ads in major magazines which touted the George Washington, Fast Flying Virginian and the Sportsman. But the September ad was a little different. It featured a half-asleep kitten with one paw sticking out from under a blanket. Under the photo of the kitten was the slogan, "Sleep Like a Kitten." The C&O had been looking for a way to promote the new all air-conditioned George Washington, little did the C&O ad execs realize they had created one of the most recognized and beloved corporate images of all time, Chessie.

On September 6, 2003 the St. Albans Chesapeake and Ohio Modelers Inc. hosted a celebration in honor of the 70th birthday of America's favorite kitten.

The restored Chesapeake and Ohio depot in St. Albans was the site of the party. There were tables full of Chessie and C & O memorabilia, photos, a flea market, VIP's and of course, birthday cake!

Chris Crouch baked a beautiful Chess "C" cake for the event. St. Albans vice Mayor, Helen Warren, read a proclamation declaring September 6 Chessie's official birthday in St. Albans and cut the cake with SACOM president Matt Crouch. The cake was served free to all that attended.

Several hundred people visited the St. Albans depot for the party. Many stopped to share memories of riding C&O trains, or tell of family members who worked on the railroad. Some people brought photos or other items to share with visitors.

The ladies of the St. Albans Depot Restoration Association took the opportunity to show off their handy work in the form of a beautifully restored depot. They also sold great hot dogs and snacks.

John Perry of West Virginia Operation Lifesaver had the "Big Red Bus" at the depot explaining safety around railroads and crossing tracks to young and old.

To all who participated in the celebration is was obvious that the connection between the C & O and the people that rode Chessie's trains still exists. It exists in the stories and memories of those who rode the rails. It exists in the landmarks left behind by an era before two cars in every garage and 747s. It exists in the hearts of those of us who strive to keep the history alive.

This photo of G6 389 was taken on the Coal River in 1919. 389 was built by the Richmond Locomotive Works in 1900 and renumbered to 749 in the early 1920s. In front of the engine from right to left is H. L. Spears, brakeman, F. W. Webb, conductor, E. D. Midkiff, fireman, H. C. Connerberry, engineer, B. B. Wade, brakeman and Roy Godby, brakeman. This photo was provided by Thomas Harding, great grandson of H. L. Spears.