Visiting a steam train museum is a chance to take a step back in time, to experience the sights, sounds and smells of the early days of locomotive transport. Unlike the cars and planes we use today, these steam locomotives were powered by burning coal, which was heated by fires in their fireboxes, to turn steel wheels that drove the trains over a 2-mile track through woods, past farms and up steep grades.
The museum features several full-size, restored locomotives including the AT&SF #2912, the largest steam engine of its type still in existence, as well as an operating GP-7 diesel train and numerous displays and interpretive exhibits about railroad development. The museum also includes a working railway yard and a large model railroad display and layout.
Many of the exhibits at the museum are sourced from railroads throughout the country, as well as from private collectors. There is a large collection of railway memorabilia, from telegraph equipment to a historical telegraph station, and the museum offers numerous interactive educational activities for visitors of all ages.
In the era of passenger trains, steam locomotives were often built with elegant, ornate details such as brass fittings and intricate carvings on their cab roofs. In fact, this was a major factor in the popularity of these machines. Some of the more elaborate examples are on display here. The museum also has a number of steam engines that were once in service but are no longer in operation. This collection features a variety of types and sizes, including the massive Southern Pacific articulated cab-forward No. 4294, which was the first full-sized engine to reach 100mph.
Of particular interest is the museum’s collection of historic steam locomotive parts and components, including a sectioned boiler from a Prussian G 8, an authentic coal car and a cab window from locomotive No. 18 610. Other notable exhibits include a steam crane, a dining car from the train used by Adolf Hitler on his historic visit to Moscow in 1955, a snow plough and a historical telegraph station.
The museum’s staff members work tirelessly to preserve and maintain the remarkable collection of historical steam locomotives and railcars on display here. They also operate a heritage railroad and offer excursion rides on weekends during the summer and fall. There is a small gift shop on the premises, as well as a picnic area and a restaurant where visitors can enjoy a meal with their family while viewing the magnificent locomotives. Those interested in learning more about the history of the railway can also visit the adjacent museum library, which features an extensive collection of books and magazines on the subject. The museum also hosts special events and lectures for railroad enthusiasts. Those who wish to support the museum can make donations by visiting their website or calling the museum directly. Volunteers are welcome to assist with the restoration and maintenance of the collection. The museum is open daily from 10am to 5pm.
