JAMESTOWN — Railtown 1897 State Historic Park (SHP) is once again offering a summertime favorite -- a special Mark Twain Train Ride on Saturday, July 23, departing at 5 p.m.

Festivities begin at 4 p.m. on the front lawn with Mark Twain - vividly portrayed by Pat Kaunert - telling fascinating stories about his train travels in the West. Live music will be provided by Dave Rainwater.

Then at 5 p.m., the Sidewinder Express (No. 2 Shay) train departs with Twain and Rainwater on board to delight and entertain passengers as they enjoy a ride through the rolling Gold Country foothills, passing through meadows and along grassy hillsides covered with ancient oak trees.

Tickets for the special Mark Twain Train Rides are $24 for adults, $12 for youths ages 6-17, and kids five and under are free. Discounted train ride ticket prices apply for Railtown 1897 SHP members and California State Railroad Museum members (Conductor level and above) at $21 for adults and $9 for youths. Admission to the Park is included with all train rides. Special Mark Twain Train Ride tickets are available online at www.railtown1897.org or by calling 916-445-5995.

In addition, the Railtown 1897 SHP Depot Store, Interpretive Center and grounds are open that day from 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Guided Roundhouse tours are also available, Railtown 1897 SHP is located at the corner of Fifth Avenue and Reservoir Road in Jamestown, near Sonora, just off Highway 49.