LEWES, Del. — Beginning at 10 a.m. on Jan. 1, 2026, the Lewes Junction Railroad and Bridge Association helped launch Lewes 250 by inviting the community to literally ring in the new year and the nation’s 250th birthday.
The organization placed the historic bell from its 1913 Pennsylvania Railroad steam locomotive No. 60 on the tracks at Lewes Junction, next to the Lewes Public Library. The bell was rung throughout the morning as part of the celebration.
Adults were able to ring the bell for a $5 donation to support the ongoing cosmetic restoration of the steam locomotive, while children were invited to ring the bell at no cost.
Festivities at Lewes Junction took place from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. and included free hot beverages, cookies and holiday-themed tours of the red caboose.