Dome interior offers unparalleled views

Imagine vacationing in the style of a captain of industry or a president of the United States. In the Gilded Age, the mode of luxury transport for the elite was on a private rail car or “private varnish.” These well-adorned cars had the exquisite finishes of a fine mansion, and a private chef to go with it. Ownership of a private rail car, of course, was reserved for only the wealthiest of Americans.

Now, Train’shares Inc. (www.trainshares.com) is offering the private rail car experience with a unique twist—you can purchase a week on a private car or you can just reserve a single room on a vintage rail car, on either a one-time basis or a time-share basis for years of traveling fun. Train’shares will begin 8-day vacation journeys aboard “private varnish” and vintage rail cars in April 2009 over routes throughout the United States.

The private rail car, Abraham Lincoln, will be coupled with the three cars that make up the American Traveler train to provide several vintage rail car options.

First, guests may choose to reserve the entire Abraham Lincoln for a completely private experience with friends or family. The Abraham Lincoln was originally constructed in 1910 by the Pullman Company. The red gum wood interior has been meticulously restored. Period furnishings