September 18, 2013, Train Hobos, Train Travelers - Curt and Jessica - Baltimore
I met Curt and Jessica on the afternoon of September 18, 2013 in Baltimore, Maryland. They were "flying" a sign looking for money so they could eat and maybe get some shelter that evening. Curt is from Portland, Oregon and Jessica is from Washington State. They are a long way from home. They had just arrived from Cumberland where they were guests of the State of Maryland for trespassing. It is not uncommon for the train travelers to have a few misdemeanors for trespassing. They are both 26 years old. Curt has been riding since 2007 and Jessica has been riding since 2005. They were a great pair - happy and full of adventure. I learned a few things from these very seasoned travelers. For instance, did you know that North Platte, Nebraska has one of the largest train yards in the country. In St. Louis there are large number of Bulls (train police).
The stories they told are similar to others - lots of adventure, no punching a time lock, and just going where ever the mood strikes them. They stay for a few days in one spot and move along.
I post these pictures for a few reasons -- the traveling life intrigues me, the train travelers, hobos, tramps, crusty kids, or whatever you want to call them are always very trusting, very courteous and just want to see the world. I give them my business card and I am sure they pass the website on to family. Their family, friends and other travelers/hobos eventually find their way to my website - I enjoy showing (vs. telling) their story to others. For their time with me and for telling me their stories, I sometimes give them cash so they can eat a good meal, buy them a pair of shoes, or maybe buy them some time for their prepaid cell phone.
These two were able to tell me the others were not -- they told me over the years, the country has changed in terms of generosity. Where they got $60 year ago, now they only get $30. It sounds like the life has gotten harder but it sounds like the thrill of travel has not outweighed the hardships they encounter. They both know that they won't do this forever but for now, it is what they want to do. My message to Curt and Jessica is .....Bravo for you! - be safe and keep exploring!
Read MoreThe stories they told are similar to others - lots of adventure, no punching a time lock, and just going where ever the mood strikes them. They stay for a few days in one spot and move along.
I post these pictures for a few reasons -- the traveling life intrigues me, the train travelers, hobos, tramps, crusty kids, or whatever you want to call them are always very trusting, very courteous and just want to see the world. I give them my business card and I am sure they pass the website on to family. Their family, friends and other travelers/hobos eventually find their way to my website - I enjoy showing (vs. telling) their story to others. For their time with me and for telling me their stories, I sometimes give them cash so they can eat a good meal, buy them a pair of shoes, or maybe buy them some time for their prepaid cell phone.
These two were able to tell me the others were not -- they told me over the years, the country has changed in terms of generosity. Where they got $60 year ago, now they only get $30. It sounds like the life has gotten harder but it sounds like the thrill of travel has not outweighed the hardships they encounter. They both know that they won't do this forever but for now, it is what they want to do. My message to Curt and Jessica is .....Bravo for you! - be safe and keep exploring!
