Tag Archives: Locomotive

Classic Tuolumne Film: The Virginian (1929)

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Silent films gave way to the ‘talkies’ in late 1927 with the success of The Jazz Singer, but it wasn’t until a year later that anyone dared take this new-fangled sound-on-film equipment hundreds of miles away from a studio. It was a bold move for Paramount, which obviously had great confidence in experienced director Victor Fleming and up-and-coming star Gary Cooper. For many people the first sound-on-film they heard was the chug and whistle of Sierra #3!

Classic Tuolumne: Back to the Future III

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In 1989, Robert Zemekis decided to finish up his trilogy in the Old West. We are thankful he chose Tuolumne County as his location, building a set in the Red Hills region. A few years ago aspiring filmmaker and editor Doc Crotzer came back to the set location for the filming of his documentary called Looking Back to the Future. He was kind enough to gather a few comments from cast and crew about Sonora. Here’s Robert Zemekis, Christopher Lloyd, and several crew members talking about the experience:

And here’s a scene of Michael J. Fox and Christopher Lloyd chasing Sierra #3:

Classic Tuolumne: Petticoat Junction

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Yes, the opening credits of Petticoat Junction features none other than our very own Sierra #3,  steaming through the Red Hills of Tuolumne County. Sierra #3 is the Movie Star train, appearing in over 100 films and TV series episodes. It is likely the most viewed steam locomotive in all the world, and you can ride it at Railtown 1897 State Historic Park in Jamestown.

TV Alert — Jamestown and Railtown feature on Huell Howser’s “California Gold”

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The return of Railtown 1897′s ‘Movie Train’, Sierra #3 is featured tonight, along with the return of the Jamestown Jail and a look at the community. Look for it at 9pm on the Sacramento PBS station KVIE, and check your local listings wherever “California Gold” is seen. More information at MyMotherLode.com