“When I moved to Folsom, I discovered the Pony Express and became fascinated with the history of it,” says Bill Anderson, recalling how he fell in love with the history of the region and its railroads. “After I discovered Folsom was the first railroad town in the West…” The rest, he implies, was history.   

Since then, Anderson has been a strong advocate for the preservation and restoration of historic railroad sites throughout the region. As president of the Folsom, El Dorado & Sacramento Historical Railroad Association, he was instrumental in founding the Folsom Railroad Museum (fedshra.org), which he now manages. The organization recently completed restoration of the historic railroad turntable (used in the 19th century to turn locomotives by hand) and they continue to host the popular Handcar Derby in May each year to support the organization’s activities. His current passion project is the restoration of a railroad superintendent’s house in Folsom’s historic district, which he hopes to one day turn into a museum. 

Anderson’s love of trains also extends to his personal life. He and his wife Sharron are both retired and have time for the occasional train excursion or two—especially on historic railways throughout the U.S. and Canada. While Anderson was recently awarded the title of 2019 Folsom “History Hero,” he remains humble about his accomplishments: “I just like being involved in the community and sharing what the railroad meant.” 

By Amber Foster

Q&A

What advice would you give to your younger self? 

Don’t wait too long before traveling.

What comes to you naturally?

Gardening.

What’s your biggest pet peeve?

People who use cell phones while crossing the street.

Are you high or low maintenance?

I am low maintenance.

Biggest life inspirations?

G.J. Chris Graves who was a true rail historian.

What are you most proud of?

My son and the fact that he graduated from college.

Favorite humanitarian cause?

Autism Speaks (autismspeaks.org)

Best words of wisdom you’ve received?

Don’t let your team down.

FAVORITES:

AUTHOR/WRITER
David McCullough