| Hobo FAQ |
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What is the Hobo Convention? The National Hobo Convention is the largest gathering of hobos, rail-riders, and tramps, who gather to celebrate the American traveling worker. When and where is the Hobo Convention? The National Hobo Convention is held the second weekend every August in Britt, Iowa How can we get to the Hobo Convention? Britt, Iowa is located 31 miles west of Mason City, Iowa. Route 18 travels through Britt. Greyhound Bus services Mason City. Clear Lake Municipal Airport offers flight service. Can we still ride a freight train to the Convention? Freight train riding is illegal! Train service to Britt, Iowa is sporadic at best. There are trains daily in either direction but the schedule varies quite a bit. While we don’t condone freight train riding, we recognize that there will be individuals who will choose to travel that way. Please be careful. What is there to do at the Hobo Convention? Aside from the scheduled events, there are many opportunities to visit with local townspeople and hobos and share stories and music and poetry. There is also many tourist attractions in the area including, the Armstrong House, The Grotto ofthe Redemption, The Surf Ballroom, the Museum of Farming and Agriculture. Hancock County Race track is located in Britt and has weekend racing. Are there any real Hobos at the Convention? There are many former and current hobos who join us at the Convention Are there any hotel or camping facilities at the Convention? There are hotels in Mason City and Clear Lake, Iowa. There is camping available in Britt. Where do the Hobos stay? Most of the hobos stay at the hobo jungle, located on the Northeast side of town, by the railroad tracks. Who runs the Hobo Convention? The City of Britt runs the Hobo Days Celebration, The Council of Hobos (Tourist Union 63) handles the business of the convention. The Hobo Foundation operates the Hobo Museum and maintains the Hobo Cemetery. Can we drink at the Convention? The Convention events are located on public property. Local laws do not allow for drinking alcoholic beverages on public property. There are a number of taverns located in Britt. Can anyone become Hobo King or Hobo Queen? To be elected King you must be a true rail-rider. You must pass a committee of hobo kings who will test your worthiness to run. To run for queen, you must attend the convention for 3 years and help out at the convention. How can we trace a loved one who was on the rails or possibly still on the rails? You may contact the Hobo Museum for more information. Call 641-843-9104. During Hobo week, you may ask at the Hobo Jungle. How can we get someone buried at the Hobo Cemetery? Contact the Hobo Foundation for information at 641-843-9104. How can I donate to the Hobos? You may donate to the hobos at the hobo jungle during Hobo Week, or you can donate financially or with memorabilia at the Hobo Museum 641-843-9104. |