Former Andrew Warde High School Teacher Paul Lewis' Passion for Railroads Steers Him to Position as Road Foreman at Nostalgic Essex Steam Train

Former Andrew Warde High School teacher Paul Lewis never took a vacation after the last day of school every June. That's because the respected drafting teacher's affinity for railroads kept him busy as the Summer engineer aboard the Essex Steam Train in Connecticut. After a highly-successful career of running the steam engine, the Trumbull resident is the road foreman for engines today.

"I've had a lifelong love of railroads and am fortunate to have my passion be my work," said Lewis, pictured at the left. "My job includes instructing train crews in their duties and assisting them in developing railroad skills."

The Essex Steam Train, one of the most popular vacation destinations in the state, is operated by the Valley Railroad Company. As a tourist excursion, the train passes through some of the most beautiful country in the state, including forests and streams, beautiful vistas, nostalgic towns, and some gorgeous views of the Connecticut River.

Lewis' drafting students at Warde were routinely recognized for their work. In fact, several of his proteges captured awards at the 1975 Teachers' Spring Convention at Central Connecticut State College in New Britain. More than 1,500 entries from schools throughout Connecticut were displayed at the fair.

While teaching at Warde, he was once the advisor to the Model Engineers Club. The club constructed an HO model railroad layout in a storage area in his classroom as a group project.

Today, though, he absolutely loves his work in Essex. "I work with a great group of dedicated people and value helping them become safe and efficient, professional railroaders," admitted Lewis, who was featured in an article about the steam train which appeared in the Bridgeport Post 34 years ago today.

That's the same philosophy he had when teaching and helping his students at Andrew Warde High School. Be sure to say hello to Mr. Lewis if you and your family venture to Essex and take a ride aboard the steam train this Summer. I know you'll enjoy the experience, and I'm sure he'd be happy to see you.

Paul

Please sign the AWHS Guest Book.

Visit the Andrew Warde High School Gift Shop.

Watch the AWHS 1976 vintage "film".