New in the Museum
Our Grand Re-Opening
Sunday, June 13th, 2021
Day in Review
Sunday's grand reopening was a tremendous success! 85+ people paid us a visit. Some were waiting at the door for us to open. Lots of kids enjoyed the inaugural running of the Kids Layout. Many thanks to the member who were present and made the day hum. Even the folks from the " club across the tracks" joined in. Next up, we'll be open Sunday, June 27th. See you there!
Our N Scale Layout - May, 2021
20210103_170719_648x648 (1).mp4The Union Pacific excursion
train in Niles Canyon
train in Niles Canyon
At the wye from Niles to the canyon, then from Niles over Alameda Creek.
The Niles switch panel is installed. Signals on the N-scale layout.
LED lighting
The museum is now nearly 100% LED lighting. Come check out our dazzling display of locomotive, caboose and general lighting. Much of it flickers just like it did in the old days!
IMG_6642.MOVLanterns I
IMG_6643.MOVLanterns II
IMG_6644.MOVLanterns III
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Live steam locomotive
Much like Walt Disney and his Carrolwood and Pacific had back before Disneyland. Rideable engines that not only "could" but pulled a string of scale size-cars and a caboose too boot!
Switch stands
These little gems helped light the way for engineers and firemen alike. LED lighting makes them glow just like back then
Conductor's Lanterns
Glowing bright day or night, these hand-held lights gave directions to cab crews and ground crews alike. They helped to ensure a safe work for all.
Lanterns and Switchstands
A variety of these restored and semi-restored lights are out and ready for visitors to see.
Restored Crew and Conductor's Uniforms
Professionalism was the word of the day for both passenger and freight crews alike. Restored uniforms are waiting for visitors to check out.
Telegraphy Equipment
See the elements of railroad communication down the line and across the system.
American Model Train Displays
Miniaturized models of the ones that rode the rails. From donors, supporters and members , these scale size beauties give you an up-close look at the real deal.
Foreign Model Train Displays
Scale size versions of the ones that ride the rails across Europe and Asia.
The Kidz Layout
No train of your own? Always want to run one? Here's your chance! Take a turn running one of three trains on our Kidz Layout. For a small donation, you have the line to yourself, and you're in charge. Careful! There are curves ahead. !
California Zephyr and Sourthern Pacific Daylight
Passenger Train Models
Passenger Train Models
These are the beauties that took their passengers across America to see the country and reconnect with friends and family.
Engine Lights
Used to help light the way, they were also the first thing anxious passengers would see as their ride across America approached the station.
The Dining Car
Known for their superb food and accommodations, railroad passenger service was the only way to travel. Seeing America and ground level from the comfort of your coach or sleeper car. A great meal and comfortable sleeping arrangements meant a trip to remember.
Dwarf Signal -- Default Red
Stop! Wait for further directions.
Dwarf Signal Green
Proceed, the track ahead is clear!
Dwarf Signal Yellow
Caution ahead! Approach slowly!
IMG_9378.MOVDwarf Signals
Small, jewel-like lights that glowed across the yard directing traffic and issuing the go-ahead for an eager engineer ready to get on the road. High ball!!