This is sad; as a Boy Scout I actually rode this train from Chicago to Raton for a trip to Philmont Scout Ranch. I know my troop and many others utilize this transportation option as flying can be expensive and inconvenient for large groups, especially when you are bringing large backpacking gear with TSA prohibited or check-only items like camping stove fuel, pocket knives, etc.
Agreed on this point, although I also find the terminology of "legally enslaved" to be poor as I'm sure the enslaved people themselves did not give credence to that law.