[Denver7 via YouTube]

Before receiving statehood in 1876, Colorado was well-known as a mining destination which resulted in mass migration from settlers and the establishment of mining operations, communities, and railroads.

You can still find great examples of Colorado history from the days long before automobiles and highways throughout the state, notably at the 15-acre Colorado Railroad Museum in the town of Golden.

Read More: Hop Aboard the Lost Futuristic Colorado Hover Trains of the 1970s |

It's at this museum that tourists and locals alike can take a look into the past at some highly unique and interesting trains including one known as a Galloping Goose.

Colorado Railroad Museum's Galloping Goose No. 7

The Galloping Goose No. is a beast of a train typically manned by Conductor Al, a 20+ year veteran of the museum.

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The rear of the train dates back to the 1930s while the front is a repurposed Pierce Arrow traincar from the 1920s.

As you can see from this report by Denver7, Conductor Al is well into his 80s and is not only the primary conductor of the Galloping Goose, but he is also responsible for taking care of all the train's restorations over the years, earning him the nickname of "Father Goose."

Despite its intimidating appearance, the Galloping Goose was originally used solely for the purpose of delivering mail but was later altered so that it could carry human passengers as well.

Check out the Galloping Goose in action by watching the full report from Denver7 here.

Hop Aboard the Lost Futuristic Colorado Hover Trains of the 1970s

Three futuristic hover trains that were part of an aborted project in the 1970s are currently sitting abandoned in Colorado.

Gallery Credit: Nate Wilde

Explore Abandoned Historic Colorado Train Yard + Huge Structures

WARNING: Under no circumstances should you enter this property. By doing so you risk bodily harm and/or prosecution for trespassing on private property.

Take a virtual tour of a 58-acre abandoned railyard in Colorado with a lot of history.

Gallery Credit: Nate Wilde

LOOK: Grand Junction Colorado has an Impressive Model Train Track

You may not even realize it, but Grand Junction has a really cool little area dedicated to trains, complete with an impressive model train track.

Gallery Credit: Nate Wilde

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