HAMBURG, N.Y. — A 100-year tradition made its last appearance in Western New York.

The James E. Strates Shows 'Fair Train' is touted as the last “show train” in the world. Thursday, it made its farewell journey.

“We had a big, big turnout at every crossing along the way and, of course, when we came in here, I couldn’t believe how many people were waiting," said Dan Neaverth, who rode on the last Fair Train.

It was a tradition beloved by many.

“It's something I think people all have a memory or a story of," explained Jessica Underberg, the CEO and fair manager for the Erie County Fair. "Today gives us that opportunity to give it its proper sendoff.”

Welcoming in the 12 best days of summer: The Erie County Fair.

“Well, it brings us together,” said Fair Train aficionado Suzi Lee.

Fans of the Strates Shows Fair Train of all ages gathered as it rolled in.

“It’s history in the making,” said Chester Walczak, one of the spectators.

“[I'm] excited,” exclaimed 9-year-old Whelan Lewandowski. “Because I like trains.”

“Oh, it hear it, it’s here,” shouted 4-year-old Grant Rusak. “Yeah, it is here!”

For some, their first experience will be their last.

“Oh I can see a big truck… oh, and a roller coaster,” Rusak exclaimed.

It brings others back to before 2019, when this was an annual tradition.

“Even when my son was born during the fair, I made sure I came,” said Suzi Lee.

For her, it’s where her family began.

“Thirty years ago, my husband was down on his luck and he met up with some carnies and they offered him a job. And he took it," she recalled. "It brought him up here."

That's why this day means a lot.

“I'll probably cry," Lee said. "You know, [it's] the last time it's going to be here. It brought him to me.”

So whether they were watching from the crowd or accompanying the train on its final ride, there was one overarching sentiment: thanks for the memories.

“Yeah, I'm going to miss it,” added Neaverth.

After this year, the fair will bring up their rides by truck, as they did during the pandemic years.

It's a much cheaper way to do it.

Strates Shows described today’s final train journey as a closing of this era of American history.