Old Ironsides Rolls Into History

Imagine the excitement on November 23, 1832, when the ground literally shook beneath Norristown as "Old Ironsides" – one of America's first steam locomotives – rolled into town! This wasn't just any train; it was Matthias Baldwin's masterpiece that could reach the incredible speed of 28 mph, making the journey from Philadelphia in record time. The locals had never seen anything like it – this iron beast that could pull 30 tons with ease, forever changing how people thought about travel and commerce.