New Mexico Steam Locomotive and Railroad Historical Society
The New Mexico Steam Locomotive and Railroad Historical Society is a non-profit organization dedicated to preserving the history of steam locomotives and railroads in New Mexico. The society was founded in 1973 and has since grown to become one of the largest and most active railroad preservation organizations in the Southwest United States.
The society operates a number of historic steam locomotives, including the Santa Fe 2926, which was built in 1944 and is one of the largest steam locomotives ever built. The locomotive was retired from service in 1953 and was later restored by the society in the 1990s.
The society also operates a railroad museum in Albuquerque, which features exhibits on the history of railroads in New Mexico, including historic locomotives, rolling stock, and artifacts. The museum is open to the public and offers guided tours, educational programs, and special events throughout the year.
In addition to its preservation and educational activities, the society also operates a number of excursion trains, including the Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad, which runs between Chama, New Mexico and Antonito, Colorado, and offers some of the most scenic views of the Rocky Mountains.
The New Mexico Steam Locomotive and Railroad Historical Society is staffed by volunteers and relies on donations and membership fees to support its preservation and educational activities. Anyone interested in supporting the society or learning more about its activities can visit its website or contact its headquarters in Albuquerque, NM.
The society is committed to preserving the legacy of steam locomotives and railroads in New Mexico and educating the public about the importance of these historic modes of transportation. It is run entirely by volunteers who are passionate about preserving this important part of American history.
One of the society’s most significant achievements was the restoration of the Santa Fe 2926 locomotive. This locomotive was once used to haul passenger and freight trains across the Southwest, but it was retired from service in the 1950s. The society acquired the locomotive in the 1990s and spent many years restoring it to its former glory. Today, the Santa Fe 2926 is one of the most impressive steam locomotives in the country and a testament to the dedication and hard work of the society’s volunteers.
The society’s museum in Albuquerque is also a significant attraction for visitors interested in the history of railroads in New Mexico. The museum features a variety of exhibits and artifacts, including historic locomotives, railroad cars, and tools. Visitors can take guided tours of the museum and learn about the important role that railroads played in shaping the Southwest.
The society’s excursion trains are another popular attraction for visitors to New Mexico. The Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad, which is operated by the society, takes passengers on a scenic journey through the mountains of northern New Mexico and southern Colorado. The train passes through some of the most beautiful scenery in the region, and passengers can enjoy breathtaking views of the Rocky Mountains and the surrounding landscape.
Overall, the New Mexico Steam Locomotive and Railroad Historical Society is an important organization dedicated to preserving the history of steam locomotives and railroads in New Mexico.
Its volunteers are passionate about their work, and they work tirelessly to ensure that this important part of American history is not forgotten. Anyone interested in supporting the society’s work or learning more about its activities should visit its website or contact its headquarters in Albuquerque.
The society also offers a variety of educational programs for people of all ages. These programs include hands-on activities, workshops, and lectures on topics related to railroads and locomotives.
The society’s education programs are designed to promote an understanding of the history and technology of railroads and to encourage an interest in preserving these important artifacts of American history.
The society relies on donations and membership fees to support its operations and preservation efforts. Members of the society receive a variety of benefits, including access to the society’s museum and special events, as well as discounts on excursion train tickets.
The New Mexico Steam Locomotive and Railroad Historical Society is an important organization that is dedicated to preserving the history of steam locomotives and railroads in New Mexico.
Through its preservation efforts, museum, educational programs, and excursion trains, the society is working to ensure that this important part of American history is not forgotten. Anyone interested in learning more about the society or supporting its work should visit its website or contact its headquarters in Albuquerque.
