Wine-Barrel Train Rolled Through Manson in its Debut Appearance

Inaugural “Parade” is the start of a new tradition

by Dennis & Loni Rahm

The drive-by celebration of Manson Apple Blossom 100th Annual Royal Court on May 9th also marked the debut of the new Manson Chamber Wine Barrel Train.

Manson Chamber of Commerce Executive Director, Debbie Conwell, said she got the idea when she saw the apple bin train at Winterfest and the barrel train in Leavenworth’s Smallwood Farm. “I started thinking how we could incorporate the winery presence in the valley and include something fun for kids,” said Conwell.

Manson residents Mike Coleman and Kurt Sixel teamed up to build the train. Coleman custom welded the trailers to carry the barrels and Sixel modified the wine barrels and added seat belts. Sixel fit each barrel to be able to carry a sign for Chamber members to market their business. The first car will carry the Manson Chamber Flag. There are currently 5 barrel cars, but the Chamber plans on extending the train to 10 cars in 2021.

For Conwell, the train connection is also personal. “I have always loved trains. My grandfather worked on the railroad so I have fond memories of visiting him and picking he and my grandmother up at the station in Seattle.”

The train currently consists of 5 barrel cars, but the Chamber plans to extend the train to 10 cars in 2021. It is intended to be used in a variety of community events like the Apple Blossom Parade, 4th of July, Winterfest, Manson Village of Lights, Rat Rod, Hydrofest, Trunk or Treating, and possibly make it available to members to use for private events.

A lot of time, talent, thought and creativity went into our little train and we think it is pretty special,” says Conwell. “Mike and Kurt took my vision and ran with it. They made it better than I could have imagined.”

One of the wine barrel cars is currently on display at the Manson Chamber Office.