Festival features railroad music

From blues to folk to gospel, the wide-ranging music of the American railroad is the subject of an educational show today at the State Historical Building in Des Moines. Frank Strong is organizing the “Railroad Songfest” which will feature four musical acts and talks by various experts.Most people know the old railroad song “I’ve Been Working on the Railroad,” but would be hard-pressed to name others. Strong, who’s also one of the musicians performing today, says you’d be surprised how many railroad songs are out there that you may’ve just forgotten.Strong says this educational, musical adventure offers entertainment for kids, adults and old-timers — along with an important message.The Songfest is free. It runs from 1:30 to 3:30 P-M.