Footplate Memories

A few years ago, I did the University of Strathclyde's really excellent MOOC on the history of the railways in the UK, and remembering how the rich histories told in the comment section enhanced the overall experience, I'm really happy to discover that this group exists. The group is dedicated the people, places and above all, the engines of South Africa's railway service. If trainspotting is your thing, you will be most welcome to share your pictures of trains on the move, but there are also tributes to train drivers and stokers, historical photographs, memorabilia, custom locomotives and rail related events. A tribute to the magic of travelling by rail. 

Members: 53.4k, at the time of writing.

Trigger Warnings: A few posts (not many) are in Afrikaans.

Go here to visit or join. 

Haunted dolls, teddys and more

Oh, cool, I thought when I spotted this one. A niche paranormal rabbit hole. Probably full of stories. And yes, this did turn out to be really interesting. A few posts featured super-creepy stories about thrift store finds, and there are horror themed dolls that will put Chucky to shame. I'm talking about that ultra realistic, fanged baby doll with the red eyes of course. Some dolls are hauntingly beautiful, but there are also unexpected rarities I've never seen before, such as the vintage magic skin baby doll and the grandpa and grandma doll that seemed to attract a lot of bad karma. There were also one-eyed franken-teddies that were surprisingly cute anyway. There are a few links to other haunted media, and also a few horror themed dolls and jewelry items posted for sale. 

Members: 12.4k, at the time of writing.

Trigger Warnings: horror themed media

Go here to visit or join. 

The Mythic Café, with Charles de Lint & Company

 Earlier this month, the co-founder of one of my favorite Facebook groups passed away. Charles de Lint and MaryAnne Harris created Mythic cafe to draw together fans of his books and through her active role in this space, MaryAnn became the heart and soul of a community of fantasists looking for tiny pieces of magic in our mostly mundane world. It was a place to share art, talk about books, share mythic tales and find those places that could be gateways to urban magic and beyond. At those time, when Facebook seemed to be stuck in its more toxic moments, this group became a balm and a refuge. While it is currently infused with a sweet sadness, it still remains one of the most special online spaces I know and it has exerted no small influence on what continues to motivate my quest to find Facebook's best online communities. My heart-felt condolences to Charles (who is one of my favorite authors) and to everyone who loved her. Unlike most of the groups I have featured since reviving the blog, this is a private group.

Members: 8.4k, at the time of writing

Trigger Warnings: None.

Go here to request access.