Smile Posts

Interesting items along the way...

Photo References for Model Railroad Building

posted April 22, 2024

massee photo of model river-trees
Mike Massee has made available a series of photos of natural rock formations and other natural habitats to use as references for your model railroad layout. Currently he has: Vasquez Rocks County Park natural area mid-spring; Tehachapi summer; and Durango and Silverton fall colors, Animas Canyon, and San Juan Mountains. Click here.



Norgrove Railway Unveils O&K #8

Posted March 15, 2024
photo of Norgrove Steam Loco O&K#8 at Engine House
Norgrove Railway recently unveiled its latest restoration project: Orenstein & Koppel #8, a 1938 0-4-0T steam locomotive. They've been meticulously reassembling all the restored, rebuilt, and new components back onto the locomotive. With more new parts on their way, it will soon be ready to steam up. Read all about Orenstein & Koppel (Wikipedia).

SMVRR #21 in 1953

Posted December 12, 2023
SMVRR #21 special train under steam from Los Angeles
Santa Maria Valley #21 with a special train from Los Angeles. The photo was taken between Guadalupe and Santa Maria in 1953. Captain G. Allen Hancock was at the throttle. Photo by Alden Armstrong. This was one of the photos submitted to the 2023 SLORRM Photo Contest.

Ice Cream & Trains Returning to AG Village

Posted April 22, 2023
model RR train at IceCream Parlor
Extra, extra, read all about it! "New ice cream shop is moving into old Doc Burnstein's spot in the Village of Arroyo Grande! Here's when." Read the article. And yes, the trains are coming back, too! Who's doing it? Rori's Artisanal Creamery out of Carpenteria.

Amtrak's "Veterans Unit"

Posted November 8, 2022
photo of Amtrak Veterans Loco in American Flag colors
On the Pacific Surfliner's Facebook page today was posted a photo of Amtrak's "Veteran's Unit" locomotive #90208. This just happens to be the locomotive that Elisabeth Haug caught at the SLO Train Station in July of 2016 in a photo that ended up being a winner (3rd place) in this year's SLORRM Photo Contest. See all of the 2022 winning photos here.

REA Building gets some TLC

Posted September 10, 2022
painters at work painting REA building
The REA (Railway Express Agency, info) building just north of the Museum is getting a little tender loving care! Missing stucco on the building has been replaced and painters are hard at work getting the stucco on that former wood-sided building to match the bus stop and the depot. Thanks to Glen Matteson for the story and photo. Watch for more info about this refurbishment project in an upcoming issue of Coast Mail (the Museum's newsletter).

Surfliner's up!

Posted May 13, 2022
photo of Amtrak Surfliner on CCMR layout
"Surfliner's up!" article in New Times, here. While not specifically about the Museum, this news item about LOSSAN effects the Museum generally and passenger rail activity through San Luis Obispo in particular. Pictured is Amtrak's Surfliner as modeled on the Central Coast Model Railroad at the Museum.

UPRR Crossing Word Puzzle

Posted December 22, 2021
graphic showing UP Crossword puzzle
Union Pacific Railroad has made a special crossword puzzle available today for National Crossword Puzzle Day! Get your copy here!

CASA of SLO County Receives Union Pacific Railroad Grant

Posted November 10, 2021
graphic showing details of UP Grants
CASA of SLO County received a Local Grants Award from Union Pacific Railroad's Community Ties Giving Program. This year, Union Pacific's program granted $5.5 million to organizations across the country. Congratulations to CASA of SLO County and a big Thank You! to Union Pacific Railroad.

Harford Pier

Posted September 27, 2020 Facebook
historic photo of Harford Pier
And this pier was the beginning of the Pacific Coast Railway that connected Avila-Port San Luis with the city of San Luis Obispo and eventually much of south SLO county and north SB county. The History Center of San Luis Obispo County is celebrating World Maritime Day with a look back to Port San Luis around the turn of the century. Beginning in 1860s and 1870s, piers and wharves were being built across SLO County's coastline to connect our towns with the shipping vessels that allowed locals to buy, sell, and travel to Los Angeles, San Francisco, and beyond.

Second PMT Trailer

Posted September 10, 2020 SLO Tribune video
photo of arrival of second PMT trailer
David Middlecamp of the SLO Tribune did a video story about the arrival of a second Southern Pacific PMT trailer at the SLO Railroad Museum. See the Collections page for more information.

Stenner Creek Bridge

Posted July 29, 2020 on Facebook
historic photo of stenner creek bridge
Then and Now, Stenner Creek Bridge, San Luis Obispo, California. Image taken 1908-1909 by Frank Aston of San Luis Obispo, from the Michael J. Semas Collection, Cal Poly. Thanks to David Middlecamp for finding and sharing. See the Facebook post for more information.

UP #1111 at SLO

Posted May 16, 2020 by the Webmaster
photo of UP Loco #1111 in route
Union Pacific Railroad ran a passenger special with locomotive No. 1111 pulling the train. No. 1111 is UP's Employee Pride Locomotive. The train overnighted in San Luis Obispo last night. Thanks to Karl Hovanitz for the photo.

Amtrak is 49 Today

Posted May 1, 2020 by Gary See on Facebook/slorrm...
historic Amtrak photo of family on platform
Amtrak is 49 years old today having started service on May 1, 1971. Amtrak was established by the Congressional Rail Passenger Service Act, which consolidated the U.S.'s existing 20 passenger railroads into one. The new CEO released this video today celebrating 49 years of service.

CRP&A Conference

Posted April 18, 2020 by Gary See
historic railroad photo by unknown author
FREE Online Railroad Photo/Art Conference today. Something to do while NOT at the Railroad Museum... For the first time ever, the Center for Railroad Photography and Art (CRP&A) will host their annual conference online, and FREE! If you're an avid railroad photographer or artist, or aficionado of such, don't miss this very unique opportunity. If you miss the live event, the presentations will also be recorded and made available for later viewing on their YouTube channel.

Flashbacks

Posted April 6, 2020 by the Webmaster
John-Michael Mahnke spotted these old photos on Facebook. Thanks for the distraction from our little coronavirus pandemic!

photo of caboose arriving at museum on trailer
Southern Pacific Caboose arrives at the Museum on November 13, 2013.

freighthouse being painted and freighthouse before paint
Top image is the Freighthouse on February 29, 2016. The bottom is before restoration began.

historic photo of tunnel#7 derailment
Helper derailment in Tunnel #7 on September 25, 1969.

SLO New Times Article

Marchetti/LaRose Standing on Museum Platform
Posted January 23, 2020 by the Webmaster
Preserving history: SLO Railroad Museum Manager Diane Marchetti (left) and President Brad LaRose work daily to keep Central Coast railroad history alive. Read the article in SLO New Times.

Pacific Coast Railway on Port Harford Pier

historic Harford Pier photo
Posted October 5, 2019 by Gary See
It's time for the Central Coast Railroad Festival! We hope you'll take time this weekend to check out our railroad exhibit and all the different events around the county to learn about the history of our county's railway systems. Pictured above is a portion of the Pacific Coast Railway seen on Port Harford Pier. Photo courtesy of the SLO History Center. See today's schedule at the SLO Railroad Museum.

From stagecoach robberies to railroads, SLO s new train tracks signaled end of an era

historic Middlecamp photo of stagecoach with horse team
Posted September 1, 2019 on Facebook/slorrm...
The August 29th San Luis Obispo Tribune included another great David Middlecamp "Photos From the Vault" story about San Luis Obispo Railroading. It shows a photo of the last stagecoach to leave San Luis Obispo on the day the Southern Pacific Railroad finally arrived in SLO on May 5, 1894. Article.

150th Anniversary of the Golden Spike

photo of Golden Spike locomotives re-enactment
Posted June 23, 2019 by member Jamie Foster
A few SLO Railroad Museum Members who attended the 150th Golden Spike Anniversary festivities in Utah this past May have posted some of their stories and photos here.

Lompoc Mural Society: Surf Depot

photo of lompoc mural - station and loco
Posted June 11, 2019 by member Jamie Foster
The Lompoc Mural Society says this about their Surf Depot mural: Year: 2006. Artist: Ann Thompson, Lompoc, CA. Location: 404 East Ocean Ave (west wall of Jalama Beach Restaurant). Description:This mural shows a scene of the Lompoc train depot in the early 1900 s. The depot was located where the Lompoc Amtrak Station is located today. Initially, a track ran from San Francisco to the mouth of the Santa Ynez River near Lompoc and from Santa Barbara to Los Angeles. It took 12 years and $2,500,000 to connect the lines and complete the fifty-mile stretch rounding Point Conception called The Gap. In 1903, the Surf Depot was the site of a whistle-stop speech made by President Teddy Roosevelt. [See details about a talk at the Museum on July 6th about Roosevelt's train trip through the west, including the SLO stop.]

Southern Pacific in Colorado Springs

photo of SP circle sign on bridge
Posted June 9, 2019 by member Jamie Foster
I was a bit surprised to see this Southern Pacific logo on a bridge in downtown Colorado Springs (just north of Mill Street on Tejon). Come to find out that the tracks between Denver and Pueblo in Colorado are under a Joint Line Agreement between Union Pacific (UP) and BNSF. The original line was built by the Denver and Rio Grande which consolidated with the Southern Pacific in 1988, practically coinciding with the UP/SP merger. In almost two years, I have yet to see anything but BNSF trains (mostly coal from the Powder River Basin) running on the Joint Line, though I do see one or two UP locos at the historic train station in downtown Colorado Springs. Update 6/20/19: I saw TWO Union Pacific trains on the Joint Line today; one a long mixed consist with five power units and one a unit train of containers. More details about the Joint Line history.

Girl Scout Railroad Merit Badge

group photo of girl scouts at Amtrak Station
Posted June 7, 2019 on Facebook/slorrm...
Thank you and congratulations to our CAOL team, Tom Mitchell and Diane Marchetti, for hosting the first Girl Scout Railroad Fun Patch Day in CA at the San Luis Obispo Railroad Museum. Dedicating the fist hour to #RailSafety, the program was a success and they will now host it annually. Thank you SLO team for the parental photo releases. More... #RailSafetyEducation #RailroadFunPatch

Harford Pier, 1937

historic photo of Harford Pier
Posted May 29, 2019 on Facebook/slorrm...
Pacific Coast Railroad excursion train, Harford Pier, Avila Beach, 1937. Thank you, Yolanda Rodrigues.

Train Day - Free Child Admission with New Times Ad

photo of SLO Train Day ticket    photo of Best of SLO ticket
Posted May 4, 2019 on Facebook/slorrm...
SLO Train Day at the SLO Railroad Museum is May 11, 2019. And kids get in free with a copy of this May 2nd New Times ad! Hours 10am to 4pm. The day's activities are listed here.

Fableist Wine-Rail Excursions

photo of Fableist Winery with RR Lights
Posted March 26, 2019 on Facebook/slorrm...
Our exclusive winery for our very popular Wine Rail Excursions has a new owner. With a new name: The Fableist Wine Company. The 2019 schedule is posted! More info is here.

SP Boxcar a Long Way From Home

photo of SP boxcar on bridge
January 26, 2019. EJ Kelly spotted this "Espee" boxcar today crossing a bridge in Ridgewood, Queens (near the Brooklyn border), a short distance from Fresh Pond Yard on the freight-only Long Island Railroad Bay Ridge Branch. The end of this line is near Industry City in Sunset Park, where cars are interchanged with the last car-float operation across NY Harbor to Jersey.

Plymouth Diesel #2038 Arrives

photo of Green Plymouth Loco at SLORRM
Posted September 21, 2018 on Facebook/slorrm...
This Plymouth 20-ton switcher was acquired in 1941 to develop and supply Camp Roberts, near San Miguel. After being declared surplus and sold, the little diesel spent time at a construction company, a quarry, and a caboose-themed lodging facility in the Sacramento Valley. Today, Dwight Peterson Trucking delivered this latest acquisition to our display track. After some careful aligning and winching, #2038 touched its new home rails. More info is here.

Hop on the new SLORRM Beer Train to BarrelHouse Brewing

BBHC Logo and Band
Posted August 29, 2018 on Facebook/slorrm...
Board the northbound Amtrak Coast Starlight train on October 6th at 3:35 PM at the SLO Amtrak station, travel over the beautiful Cuesta Grade, and detrain at Paso Robles where our tour group will be picked up by a large tour van. You will be transported to BarrelHouse Brewing Company, where you will sample their craft beer, enjoy the live entertainment by Prestige playing Classic Tunes of the 60's & 70's, and play corn hole, if you wish. Food is available for purchase. When the entertainment ends, you will be transported via bus back to the SLO Amtrak Station, arriving around 9:30 pm. All transportation, complimentary beer and live entertainment are included in your ticket (dinner available for purchase). Details are here.

Four Passenger Trains at SLO Together

photo of 4 trains in SLO Yard at same time
April 4, 2018 on Facebook/slorrm...
It's been probably 70 years since four passenger trains have converged on the SLO Amtrak Station at the same time. Amtrak Surfliner (layover for 763 to 796), Northbound Amtrak Starlight #14, UP Business Special #1943, and Southbound Amtrak Starlight #11. The UP ran the 20-car directors special up the Coast Line with an overnight stop in SLO. Made an interesting traffic jam, with the northbound starlight #14 having to proceed up the siding and back into the station after southbound #11 left. Thanks, Karl, for the photo.

How the steam engine disappeared from the Central Coast

middlecamp photo of Daylight Loco
January 29, 2018 on Facebook/slorrm...
Another great David Middlecamp "Photos From the Vault" story about San Luis Obispo Railroading was in the San Luis Obispo Tribune this past Saturday. A link to the article is here.

Southern Pacific Sign

Photo of historic SP Roundhouse Sign December 17, 2017 on Facebook/slorrm...
This is a metal sign from the Southern Pacific Railroad Roundhouse in San Luis Obispo. The Roundhouse was demolished in 1959 (originally built in 1898) but this sign was saved at that time by SP employee Art Laidlaw (railroad engineer of locomotives) who donated it to the Railroad Museum in 2009. The sign is sheet metal, approximately 36" in diameter. It is hand painted using colored paint, with brush strokes being very visible and not precise. It was most likely constructed in the roundhouse machine shop as it is not porcelain coated, and does not appear to have the fine finished edges of a professional sign shop. For more information about the SP SLO Roundhouse, read an interesting David Middlecamp Tribune "Photos From The Vault" article. The sign is on display at the museum.

SLO County Outlaws: Desperados, Vigilantes, and Bootleggers

historic photo of outlaws June 30, 2017 on Facebook/slorrm...
July 1, 2017, 1pm
At the Freighthouse
Talk by Jim Gregory, author

In 1858, San Luis Obispo County had the highest murder rate in the United States, a trend that had begun with a horrific mass murder at Mission San Miguel in 1848 and continued through the Gold Rush years, when cattle-buyers and their gold dust were easy prey along El Camino Real. A vigilance committee and its extrajudicial executions in front of Mission San Luis Obispo put an end to the most notorious outlaw gang, but not to lawbreaking. Stagecoach, bank, and train robbers appeared periodically; ironically, among the most peaceful local residents in the 19th century were the James Brothers, who lived near Paso Robles in 1868-69, and the Daltons, who visited their brother Bill near San Miguel in 1891-92. A lynching in Arroyo Grande, a murder in San Luis Obispo's Chinatown, and, with Prohibition, a steady traffic in bootleg whiskey, one that included Al Capone, were all hallmarks of a region that may have been rural and isolated, but was never "sleepy."

Talk is free with admisison to the museum. Admission is $3 per adult, $2 for children(4-15, Free for children under 3 years of age.

Art After Dark: SLO is expanding its reach

postcard art of Freighthouse June 7, 2017 on Facebook/slorrm...
Art After Dark: SLO is expanding its reach. Join us at the San Luis Obispo Railroad Museum to see some of SLO's finest artists and their railroad-themed art. We will have painters, photographers, and the incredible art piece that is becoming our museum-quality model railroad. Friday, July 7th, at 6pm will see the debut of the SLO Railroad Museum in SLO's art scene. See long-time historic artists and up-and-coming photographers. Don't miss the scale recreation of our historic railroads that is growing building by building and tree by tree in our model area. Admission to the Museum on this special evening will be FREE and we encourage everyone to enjoy the 1894 Southern Pacific Freighthouse that has become the home of the SLO Railroad Museum. More details can be found here. Painting by Joan Sullivan.

Train Order

sample trainorder from 1949 May 23, 2017 on Facebook/slorrm...
This is a train order. Railroads used thousands of them a year in the era of "timetable and train order" operation, with dispatchers sending orders to operators along the line via telegraph, to modify the routine schedules found in the employee timetables (a different kind of document from public timetables). They were hand copied or typed on very thin tissue paper, with carbon paper to make multiple copies, and were very fragile --hence the common name for them: flimsies. It's Christmas eve, 1949, and the northbound (railroad timetable westbound) Morning Daylight, the Coast Route's premier L.A. - S.F. coach train, is told to wait at the small farming town of Guadalupe (near the S.L.O.-Santa Barbara county line, not a scheduled stop) for the southbound, all-stops mail train. Oh, the indignity. Both trains probably have extra cars. I'm surprised there's no reference to multiple sections (separate following trains operating a few minutes apart) to handle holiday business.

SLO steam era ended when the roundhouse came down

drawing of old SLO roundhouse and turntable
April 16, 2017 on Facebook/slorrm...
David Middlecamp's "Photos From The Vault" article in Saturday's San Luis Obispo Tribune. Read the story here.

Diane Marchetti Honored

March 11, 2017
Diane Marchetti was recently nominated as part of the SLO County Commission on the Status of Women as a Woman of the Year by the SLO Railroad Museum. More info...

Cinco de Mayo Wine Rail Excursion


March 20, 2017 on Facebook/slorrm...
Come celebrate Cinco de Mayo with trains, wine, and live music! Leave the SLO Amtrak Station at 3:35 pm on Friday afternoon, May 5th, and travel on the Coast Starlight over the beautiful Cuesta Grade to Paso Robles. Then get transported to Pomar Junction Winery for their Train Wreck Friday party. Enjoy music by Ricky Monjito & The Mojitos. Wine-tasting is included in your fare, and diinner is available to buy or bring your own picnic. Transportation is provided back to the SLO Amtrak Station. Cost is $75 per person for the entire excursion. Contact media@slorrm.com for tickets and information. More info...

Movie/Talk at the Museum


January 24, 2017 on Facebook/slorrm...
On January 28th at 3pm, Movies at the Museum returns in 2017 with an educational talk and classic movie! Glen Matteson will be presenting a talk about "A Railroad That Never Was". In 1891, Myron Angel sought investors for a railroad to link San Luis Obispo with the San Joaquin Valley - a can't lose proposition that would be far superior to the approaching Southern Pacific and its connection with San Francisco city slickers. Glen will detail this planned railroad. Following the talk will be a showing of an old classic movie - "Hurricane Express". A very young John Wayne stands between a mysterious villain and railroad mayhem, with the help of some very early special effects, and amid some locations you may recognize. Cost of admission is $3, which includes access to the museum, talk, and movie.

Happy New Year! from the Museum


January 2, 2017 on Facebook/slorrm...
HAPPY HAPPY HAPPY NEW YEAR from the San Luis Obispo Railroad Museum. Here's to a great 2017 for everyone. Interestingly, the weather forecast for this weekend includes a slight chance of snow on Cuesta Grade...

Sunset at the Museum

photo of museum sign with sunset clouds
December 12, 2016 on Facebook/slorrm...
The new signal/sign out front is beautifully silhouetted.

PCRy Historic Right-of-Way Bus Tour: 11/13/16, 7:45am

historic photo of PCRy #6
November 8, 2016 on Facebook/slorrm...
Sunday, November 13, 2016 starting at 745am. Advance Reservations Required. Do you want to learn more about the narrow gauge Pacific Coast Railway? Then join us on a bus tour that follows the old right-of-way. You won't see any of these old locomotives anymore but you can at least see where they ran and use your imagination to visualize the trains that ran on the central coast more than 125 years ago. We will begin boarding the bus at 7:45am at the south end of the San Luis Obispo Railroad Museum (bus leaves at 8am). We will follow the historic right of way of the PCRy. Lunch on your own about noon at Pea Soup Andersen's in Buellton. Return to SLO about 4pm. Karl Hovanitz will be our guide. Cost is $39 per person. To make reservations and pay, contact Diane at media@slorrm.com or call 805-548-1894.

Railborne Military Guns and The Great Locomotive Chase

historic photo from movie The General
August 10, 2016 on Facebook/slorrm...
SATURDAY, AUGUST 13th at 3pm, hear Glen Matteson's account of the events that occurred when some railborne military guns were fired on the California coast. Then immediately following, enjoy one of the finest silent movies ever made. Buster Keaton stars in "The General", a movie based on the Great Locomotive Chase which occurred in 1862. Keaton was famous for doing his own stunts and the ones in this movie are exciting (and dangerous). The American Film Institute rates this movie as one of the top 10 comedies of all time and we are proud to present it as the first in our series of MOVIES AT THE MUSEUM. Free admission for members and just $3 (regular museum admission) for non-members ($2 for kids).

South Street Roundhouse

historic photo of PCRy roundhouse
July 12, 2016 on Facebook/SoStRoundhouse...
Did you know that South Street Roundhouse was named after a real place? It was an iconic building of the Pacific Coast Railway, and stood in SLO for many years. You can read about it in the book "The Pacific Coast Railway" which was co-written by South Coast Roundhouse band member Curtiss Johnson. You can pick up a copy of the book at the gift shop at the SLO Railroad Museum, then come talk to Curt about the history of the Pacific Coast Railway when SSR performs at the museum on October 8, 2016 (during the Central Coast Railroad Festival).

Happy 4th of July from the SLO Railroad Museum!



Museum Participates in Scout-O-Rama




May 27, 2016 on Facebook...
The railroad museum participated in the Boy Scout Scout-O-Rama event at Dinosaur Caves Park on May 21, 2016. Many scouts learned about the Museum's Railroading Merit Badge program. See The Facebook post for photos of this fun day. The next Merit Badge class at the museum will be Sunday, October 16th. Cost is $25 and includes all materials, including a model railroad car. Check the SLORRM website for more information about prerequisites and registration.

First Southern Pacific Train Arrives SLO, May 5, 1894

historic photo of crowd at SLO Train Station
May 5, 2016 on Facebook...
On May 5, 1894 at 3:25 P.M., the first Southern Pacific train finally reached San Luis Obispo. The SP Railroad had reached Santa Margarita north of the Cuesta Grade on April 20, 1889. It then took 5 years for thousands of laborers using hand tools and dynamite to construct 8 tunnels, the Stenner Creek trestle, and the spectacular horseshoe curve to complete the track down Cuesta Grade to San Luis Obispo. Several thousand visitors and residents gathered at the Ramona Hotel to meet the train and celebrate the event. San Luis Obispo became a railroad town. This photo of a crowd at the San Luis Obispo Southern Pacific Station is circa 1913-1914 and from the Cal Poly San Luis Obispo Kennedy Library Online Archives. See also "Photos From The Vault" - click here.

Surf Station Closes March 1, 1985

photo of Surf Station
March 1, 2016. THIS DAY IN RAILROAD HISTORY (31 years ago yesterday) --- SOUTHERN PACIFIC SURF STATION CLOSED. On March 1, 1985, the last train order came and the windows were boarded up at the Southern Pacific Surf Station. Southern Pacific reached Surf (on the coast near Lompoc) in 1896, and by June 1899 an extension to Lompoc was completed. The entire Coast line from San Francisco to Los Angeles was finally fully operational on March 31, 1901.

For a story about John Roskoski and his photo chronicles of Surf, visit:
http://lompocrecord.com/news/local/train-buff-takes-story-of-surf-across-nation/article_242225de-7b28-5878-99b2-a97618cc43a9.html

Additional information is available at the following:
http://modelingthesp.com/Employees_%26_th /Surf_History.html
http://dogcaught.com/2008/02/29/memories-of-surf/
http://coscia-espee.info/sp_cs22_depots.html

Photo from:
http://dogcaught.com/2008/02/29/memories-of-surf/

Santa and Mrs. Claus Arrive by Train

       



December 12, 2015. Santa and Mrs. Claus arrived in SLO on the Amtrak Surfliner last Saturday as planned and visited with many boys and girls on La Cuesta all afternoon (on Facebook). Thanks to Brooke Schumacher and Cheryl Strahl Photography for the photos. More photos...

Southern Pacific Incorporated December 2, 1865

December 2, 2015 on Facebook...
THIS DAY IN RAILROAD HISTORY (150 years ago today) --- SOUTHERN PACIFIC RAILROAD INCORPORATED DECEMBER 2, 1865. Today is the 150th anniversary of the creation of the SP. Southern Pacific Railroad Company was formed and incorporated on December 2, 1865 to build a transcontinental railroad along a more southern route. On October 13, 1988, Rio Grande Industries took control of the Southern Pacific Railroad but the merged company retained the name "Southern Pacific" for all railroad operations. The Southern Pacific name was retired on Sept. 11, 1996 when Southern Pacific merged with the Union Pacific Railroad.

Holiday Decorating

photo of youngsters decorating tree photo of youngsters waving to train November 30, 2015 on Facebook...
The Museum was decorated for the holidays this past weekend, including the assistance of these young ones.

Central Coast Railroad Festival

October 4, 2015 on Facebook...
The Central Coast Railroad Festival was in full swing on Saturday and continues today at the Railroad Museum and other locations. All the photos will be at CCRRF.com. Pictured at left is a portion of the Central Coast Model Railroad being built at the Museum.

Click here for photos taken at the Museum on Saturday and Sunday of the Festival.

Railroad Story Time Kicks Off Railroad Festival

October 1, 2015 on Facebook...
The Railroad Festival got an early start on Tuesday at the San Luis Obispo Library where Amtrak Conductor Saphya gave an Amtrak/Operation Lifesaver presentation as part of Railroad Story Time. Come join us at Railroad Festival events tonight at SLO Farmers' Market, SLO Library, and Atascadero Library and all over the county this weekend. Full details at CCRRF.com.


San Luis Obispo made Southern Pacific an offer it could not refuse

Tribune photo showing train on Cuesta Grade September 29, 2015 on Facebook...
Some interesting history on Cuesta Grade construction was in David Middlecamp's "Photos From The Vault" article in Saturday's San Luis Obispo Tribune titled "San Luis Obispo made Southern Pacific an offer it could not refuse". Read the story here. Thanks, too, for the plug about the Museum's Central Coast Railroad Festival!


Southern Pacific Helpers Derail in Cuesta Tunnel 7

tribune photo of derailment September 25, 2015 on Facebook...
In the pre-dawn hours of September 25, 1969, a five unit helper train operating light down Cuesta Grade toward San Luis Obispo derailed just east of Cuesta Tunnel No. 7. The lead locomotive was a new GE U33C, SP #8642 which had only been in service for 3 months. The accident was described as follows: "When the 8642 came out of Tunnel 7 it went straight into the side of the mountain. With the other 4 units behind it, they shoved it to the left and the other units started up the side of the hill. The frame of the 8642 was broken in two and was picked up in two pieces. The front half went on a flat car. The rear half went on another flat. The trucks, engine, pieces, etc., went into two gondolas. They used the LA hook on the east end and the Watsonville Junction hook on the west end." All three SP crew members on board lost their lives in this crash -- engineer Donald Holderman, 56; fireman Manuel Cardoza, 45; and William R. Garner, 21, a railway clerk riding with the crew.


Why a Railroad to Avila?

September 18, 2015 on Facebook...
Presentation: Why a Railroad to Avila? with Andrew Merriam. Saturday, September 19, 11am to noon. Learn about the now-vanished Pacific Coast Railway that connected San Luis Obispo to the pier at Avila in the late 19th century with Andrew Merriam, railroad historian and board member of SLORRM. Andrew will be giving an expert's overview of the history and importance of the first rail line on the Central Coast during a presentation on Saturday, September 19th, from 11 am to noon, at the Railroad Museum. We welcome everyone who would like to learn more about the crucial role this railroad played in developing the Central Coast area. His talk is included with your regular museum admission.


Pacific Coast Railway Exhibit and Talk

photo of people looking at exhibit September 11, 2015 on Facebook...
Our Pacific Coast Railway expert, Andrew Merriam, has created an amazingly informative and beautiful exhibit about the PCRy which is on display August through October at the History Center in downtown San Luis Obispo (in the beautiful old Carnegie Library near the Mission). Andrew has put countless hours into designing this beautiful exhibit which presents vignettes of what life was like and why a railway from Avila to San Luis Obispo made a huge difference in the development of the town and, eventually, the entire county. The exhibit will stay in the History Center through the end of October and then move over to the Railroad Museum. Additionally, Andrew will be giving an expert's overview of the history and importance of this first rail line on the Central Coast during a presentation on Saturday, September 19th, from 11 am to noon, at the Railroad Museum. We welcome everyone who would like to learn more about the crucial role this railroad played in developing the Central Coast area. His talk is included with your regular museum admission.


Southern Pacific's SLO Depot Torn Down

photo of depot photo of torn down depot August 13, 2015 on Facebook...
THIS DAY IN RAILROAD HISTORY (44 years ago today) --- SOUTHERN PACIFIC SAN LUIS OBISPO DEPOT TORN DOWN. On August 13, 1971, the original San Luis Obispo Southern Pacific Passenger Depot was torn down to make room for a parking lot. This original depot was built in 1894 by Southern Pacific when they first arrived in San Luis Obispo and used as a depot until about 1942 (exact date uncertain) when SP completed the new (and current) passenger depot. This original depot was located just south of the current depot. After the new depot was opened, the former depot was utilized as a freight depot and railroad offices until 1968, when it was shuttered. For more information and the complete Photos From The Vault article by David Middlecamp, click here. Depot photo taken on April 8, 1968 by Pat Flynn. Demolition photo from the San Luis Obispo Tribune Photos From The Vault


Southern Pacific Reaches Guadalupe

historic photo of Guad depot July 1, 2015 on Facebook...
THIS DAY IN RAILROAD HISTORY (120 years ago today) --- SOUTHERN PACIFIC RAILROAD REACHED GUADALUPE. On July 1, 1895, regular trains began running into Guadalupe (from the north) over the Santa Maria River on a temporary trestle. A permanent bridge was completed in late June 1896. The Southern Pacific Coast Line gap was now from Guadalupe (on the North) to Ellwood (11 miles west of Santa Barbara on the South). This gap wasn't closed until almost 6 years later on March 31, 1901 when regular trains began running on the Coast Line between San Francisco and Los Angeles. Info from Coast Line book by John Signor. Photo of Guadalupe SP Standard Depot 22 taken on July 1, 1976 by Craig Walker (http://www.railpictures.net/photo/390460/).


Photos from the Vault: Cuesta Grade CTC

May 30, 2015 on Facebook...
Really cool "Photos From The Vault" by David Middlecamp in the San Luis Obispo Tribune about CTC (Centralized Traffic Control) Railroad Signalling on Cuesta Grade during World War 2. Full photo and Tribune article are here: "Photos From The Vault: The move that sped up train travel over the Cuesta Grade".


Southern Pacific Reaches SLO

May 5, 2015 on Facebook...
On May 5, 1894 at 3:25 P.M., 121 years ago this day, the first Southern Pacific train finally reached San Luis Obispo. The SP Railroad had reached Santa Margarita north of the Cuesta Grade on April 20, 1889. It then took 5 years for thousands of laborers using hand tools and dynamite to construct 8 tunnels, the Stenner Creek trestle, and the spectacular horseshoe curve to complete the track down Cuesta Grade to San Luis Obispo. Several thousand visitors and residents gathered at the Ramona Hotel to meet the train and celebrate the event. San Luis Obispo became a railroad town. Full photo and Tribune article are here: "Photos From The Vault: 1894 First Southern Pacific train service to San Luis Obispo".


"FIRE IN CUESTA TUNNEL NO. 7"

April 29, 2015 on Facebook...
current photo of tunnel #7 on cuesta grade
Just after midnight on April 29, 1987, a westbound train passing through Southern Pacific's Cuesta Grade tunnel no. 7 reported a fire in the 1,354 foot long, partly concrete lined, partly wooden-beam timber bore. The fire burned for two days before finally being extinguished by SP Fire Specialists brought in from Eugene, Oregon. But the fire managed to get into some of the old wooden timbers behind the concrete lined construction and flared up again on May 3rd. Part of the tunnel collapsed 400 feet from the east portal. When the smoke finally cleared for the second time, SP was faced with rebuilding over 1,100 feet of the tunnel. The fire and reconstruction efforts closed the SP Coast Line for a total of 13 days, forcing the rerouting of all freight trains to the San Joaquin Valley Line and the annulment of Amtrak passenger trains. Finally, the tunnel was reopened on May 11, 1987 at a total cost of $1.9 million. (Info from the book "Southern Pacific's Coast Line" by John R. Signor and photo by Snob!k3r).


Ludwick Reception at the Museum

April 14, 2015 on Facebook...

ludwick waving to crowd   crowds

Art Ludwick recently held a Ludwick-Jones Family Reunion at the Railroad Museum with about 130 people attending from many states. Waving from the platform are Art, his Aunt Lillian, and his brother Ted. Also attending the reunion were some Macaws owned by one of the family members who lives locally in San Luis Obispo.

parrots on platform




MYSTERY PHOTOGRAPH

March 13, 2015 on Facebook...

historic photo of handcar

Can you help solve a mystery? This photograph was recently donated to the museum. Could it be Cuesta siding on the north side of the summit? Remarkably, it shows a velocipede and a handcar like the ones displayed in the museum. The handcar is numbered SP XX279 with WO 9 9 15 in smaller characters below. The photo must have been taken somewhere on the Southern Pacific in the early 1900s. It's in mountainous territory, with a siding holding the vehicles and a main track curving to the left in the background. The vegetation appears to be chaparral and oak, with spindly or burned-over trees on the mountainside in the distance. Parts of three separate pole lines are visible. There are three sheds, one with a nearly flat roof, and all having rails and wide doors for setting off handcars. The closest shed bears the number 9, probably identifying this as Section 9. By now probably all that remains is a main track with heavier rails.

Any informed guesses on where this was? Special recognition if you can identify any of the men.

Read the full story in Issue 51 of "Coast Mail".


Ready for the Holidays

December 11, 2014 on Facebook...
The Railroad Museum is all decorated with toy trains for the kids and holiday treats for all. Come to our Holiday Open House this Saturday, December 13th, from 10am to 4pm. We look forward to celebrating with you, your family and friends.

holiday decorations    holiday decorations

holiday decorations

Visitors to the Museum

November 27, 2014 on Facebook...
HAPPY THANKSGIVING! The last week has seen three tour groups come to the Museum. We thank the Cuesta Crankers Model A Club, the Friends of the Santa Maria Valley Railroad, and an energetic Tiger Scouts group who all came to see us in the last few days. You can see the boys as they wave at the Surfliner, learn about the unusual history of the velocipede and find out how engineers got their train orders in the old days. Thanks to all of you.

boyscouts at museum

boyscouts at museum    boyscouts at museum

La Condesa Update

November 19, 2014 on Facebook...
The SLORRM Pullman Observation-Lounge-Diner passenger car is undergoing refurbishment and return to much of the layout that the car had when first built in 1926. The current effort is to restore the dining room which was removed decades ago to make way for an additional bedroom. This change was simple with the addition of a wall and small serving kitchen which then created a hallway next to the new bedroom to allow movement from the lounge to rest of the train. This wall (and serving kitchen) have now been removed and repairs to the entrance doorway and floor are underway as shown in the photographs. Our goal is twofold - show the car as it was originally built and allow us to host larger events in the lounge/dining room space.

Work inside    Railcar exterior

Railcar interior

Union Pacific Railroad Training Car

photo of UP Car 911119

October 24, 2014 on Facebook...
Union Pacific Railroad has produced a state-of-the-art training car that will travel around the U.S. teaching rail safety and emergency preparedness to first responders. In its first official stop, the car arrived in San Luis Obispo yesterday and will be viewable today (Friday Oct 24) from 2-6 p.m. on the Union Pacific Railroad siding located just south of the San Luis Obispo Railroad Museum (1940 Santa Barbara Street) in SLO. You will see the railcar parked on the siding south of the museum behind our Emily Street Rail Yard and Miner?s Hardware parking lot. A Union Pacific hazardous materials director and a Union Pacific public affairs director will provide information on the new training boxcar.

Girl Scout Troop Visits

photo of scouts on platform August 24, 2014 on Facebook...
The Museum had special guests when some of the youngest members of Girl Scout Troop 40300 visited, along with their moms and some siblings. They learned about the major role that railroading played in San Luis Obispo, and the importance of clear communication and safety in railroad operations. Popular activities included ringing a big locomotive bell and operating the wig-wag crossing signal. They also used ?scavenger hunt? work sheets to look for items ranging from a locomotive headlight to HO scale seals near the Port Harford pier.

From the Freighthouse

These "From the Freighthouse" e-blasts are sent to members and friends on a more frequent basis than the formal newsletter. If you would like to have issues of "From the Freighthouse" emailed directly to you, subscribe to the "From the Freighthouse" email list. It's free!

 

From the Freighthouse 11/27/24

This issue of "From the Freighthouse" includes: Santa Arrives December 7th about 12:30pm, free Museum admission while Santa is here (see 2023 photos), and Become a Member/Docent. Click here (PDF).

From the Freighthouse 9/27/24

This issue of "From the Freighthouse" includes: Central Coast Railroad Festival, and Become a Member/Docent. Click here (PDF).

From the Freighthouse 8/28/24

This issue of "From the Freighthouse" includes information about the Members Get-Together on Saturday, September 7, 2024 from 3-5pm. Click here (PDF).

From the Freighthouse 8/3/24

This issue of "From the Freighthouse" includes: Wine-Rail Excursions: new date added October 5th, Central Coast Railroad Festival, 2024 Photo Contest, and Become a Member/Docent. Click here (PDF).

From the Freighthouse 5/7/24

This issue of "From the Freighthouse" includes: Wine-Rail Excursions Return for the 2024 Season, 2024 Photo Contest, and Become a Member/Docent. Click here (PDF).

From the Freighthouse 3/15/24

This issue of "From the Freighthouse" includes: Wine-Rail Excursions Return for the 2024 Season, 2024 Photo Contest, and Become a Member. Click here (PDF).

From the Freighthouse 3/11/24

This issue of "From the Freighthouse" includes: Members Get-Together, Saturday, March 16, 2024, 3-5pm, please RSVP to media@slorrm.com at 805-548-1894. Click here (PDF).

From the Freighthouse 2/29/24

This issue of "From the Freighthouse" includes: Members Get-Together, Saturday, March 16, 2024, 3-5pm. Click here (PDF).

From the Freighthouse 1/30/24

This issue of "From the Freighthouse" includes: Heartland Homeschool tour, 2024 Wine/Rail Excursions, and the 2024 Photo Contest. Click here (PDF).

From the Freighthouse 11/24/23

This issue of "From the Freighthouse" includes: Santa on the Surfliner, December 2, 2023, about 12:30pm arrival into the San Luis Obispo Train Station, see last year's photos. Click here (PDF).

From the Freighthouse 9/28/23

This issue of "From the Freighthouse" includes: Order your BBQ Dinner, details; Happy Hour Fundraiser at House of Bread, October 6, 2023, details. Click here (PDF).

From the Freighthouse 9/19/23

This issue of "From the Freighthouse" includes: Online Auction and BBQ, details; Happy Hour Fundraiser at House of Bread, October 6, 2023, details. Click here (PDF).

From the Freighthouse 9/5/23

This issue of "From the Freighthouse" includes: Wine-Rail Excursion to Santa Barbara, October 14, 11am-9pm, details; Central Coast Railroad Festival October 6-8, 2023, details. Click here (PDF).

From the Freighthouse 8/17/23

This issue of "From the Freighthouse" includes: Wine-Rail Excursion to Santa Barbara, October 14, 11am-9pm, details; CCRRF Online Auction and BBQ, details. Click here (PDF).

From the Freighthouse 5/27/23

This issue of "From the Freighthouse" includes: Member Get-Together June 17, 3-5pm. For members only. Please RSVP by June 14th. Click here (PDF).

From the Freighthouse 5/9/23

This issue of "From the Freighthouse" includes: Hobo Codes, May 13th, 1pm; N Scale Items For Sale; and Date Nail Exhibit. Click here (PDF).

From the Freighthouse 3/28/23

This issue of "From the Freighthouse" includes: Movies at the Museum: Twisted Rails, April 1st, 3pm; and info on membership and becoming a docent. Click here (PDF).

From the Freighthouse 2/26/23

This issue of "From the Freighthouse" includes: Movies at the Museum: Twisted Rails, April 1st, 3pm; the Central Coast Railroad Festival is set for October 6-8, 2023; the 2023 SLORRM Photo Contest is open for submissions; and info on membership and becoming a docent. Click here (PDF).

From the Freighthouse 9/22/22

This issue of "From the Freighthouse" includes: the Railroad Museum's fundraising BBQ and Online Auction culminating at the CCRRF; and info on membership and becoming a docent. Click here (PDF).

From the Freighthouse 9/2/22

This issue of "From the Freighthouse" includes: the Railroad Museum's schedule for the Central Coast Railroad Festival (CCRRF) in October; the Railroad Museum's fundraising BBQ and Online Auction culminating at the CCRRF; the Railroad Museum's Photo Contest which closes September 15th; the Boy Scout Merit Badge Day scheduled for October 23rd; Girl Scout Day at the Museum on November 5th; Santa Claus visits the Museum on December 3rd; and info on membership and becoming a docent. Click here (PDF).

From the Freighthouse 6/8/22

This issue of "From the Freighthouse" includes: The Railroad Museum's big day during the Railroad Festival will be Saturday, October 8, 2022; and info on membership and becoming a docent. Click here (PDF).

From the Freighthouse 12/22/21

This issue of "From the Freighthouse" includes: the Museum will be closed December 25th and January 1st; and info on membership and becoming a docent. Click here (PDF).

From the Freighthouse 10/31/21

This issue of "From the Freighthouse" includes: Decorating Day at the Museum, November 26, 10am-2pm; Santa Arrives by Surfliner, December 4, about 12:30pm; and info on membership and becoming a docent. Click here (PDF).

From the Freighthouse 9/18/21

This issue of "From the Freighthouse" includes: Central Coast Railroad Festival at the Museum October 2, 2021, details here; 4th Saturday CCMR Modeling Program is restarting on Saturday, September 25th, 12 Noon, details here; Modelers night at the CCMR Saturday, October 2, 2021 4:30pm to 7:30pm (CCMR Members only); Danny the Diesel Locomotive Hauls Rocks, 2nd children's book in a series is out, details here; and info on membership and becoming a docent. Click here (PDF).

From the Freighthouse 6/17/21

This issue of "From the Freighthouse" includes: the Museum is open, see limitations; SLORRM BBQ and Auction June 7-26, 2021; and info on membership and becoming a docent. Click here (PDF).

From the Freighthouse 6/7/21

This issue of "From the Freighthouse" includes: the Museum is re-opening, see limitations; SLORRM BBQ and Auction June 7-26, 2021 including an auction item for a private party at Bitter Creek Western Railroad; and info on membership and becoming a docent. Click here (PDF).

From the Freighthouse 5/3/21

This issue of "From the Freighthouse" includes: the Museum is re-opening, see limitations; the next (and likely last) Parlor Car Chat (May 8th, online) topic is the Cog Railway at Pikes Peak; and info on membership and becoming a docent. Click here (PDF).

From the Freighthouse 3/13/21

This issue of "From the Freighthouse" includes: the next Parlor Car Chat (March 20th, online) is Lost in the Details: Gauge, Couplers, and Brakes; then the following Parlor Car Chat (April 10th, online) is California Short Line Railroad Association; then the following Parlor Car Chat (April 24th, online) is Modeling Central Coast Railroads at the Museum; and then a Parlor Car Chat (May 8th, online) is History of the SLO Railroad Museum; and info on membership and becoming a docent. Click here (PDF).

From the Freighthouse 2/14/21

This issue of "From the Freighthouse" includes: the next Parlor Car Chat (February 20th, online) is Rail Excursion to the Huntington Library; then the following Parlor Car Chat (March 6th, online) is Speeders on the SMVRR; and then a Parlor Car Chat (May 8th, online) is History of the SLO Railroad Museum; Year-End Giving, click here; and info on membership and becoming a docent. Click here (PDF).

From the Freighthouse 12/29/20

This issue of "From the Freighthouse" includes: the next Parlor Car Chat (January 9th, online) is Swanton Pacific Railroad; then the following Parlor Car Chat (January 23rd, online) is Views from the Observation Car; and then a Parlor Car Chat (February 6th, online) is Remnants of Railroads in the Santa Maria Valley; Year-End Giving, click here; and info on membership and becoming a docent. Click here (PDF).

From the Freighthouse 12/3/20

This issue of "From the Freighthouse" includes: the next Parlor Car Chat (12/5, online) is Fillmore and Western Railway; then the following Parlor Car Chat (12/19, online) is Skunk Train Railbikes; and info on membership and becoming a docent. Click here (PDF).

From the Freighthouse 11/9/20

This issue of "From the Freighthouse" includes: the next Parlor Car Chat (online) is Alvin All-Star Railroad; and info on membership and becoming a docent. Click here (PDF).

From the Freighthouse 11/3/20

This issue of "From the Freighthouse" includes: the next Parlor Car Chat (online) is Davenport 2-6-2; and info on membership and becoming a docent. Click here (PDF).

From the Freighthouse 9/30/20

This issue of "From the Freighthouse" includes: The next Parlor Car Chats (online) are Union Pacific's Bailey Yard, the Golden Spike Tower, and Great Acts of Kindness on October 10th, Guided Photoshoot on the SMVRR on October 17th, and The Circus Train on October 31st, all at 10am PDT; info on membership and becoming a docent. Click here (PDF).

From the Freighthouse 9/13/20

This issue of "From the Freighthouse" includes: The next Parlor Car Chats (online) are Amtrak's Coast Starlight and Great Lodges on September 26th and Union Pacific's Bailey Yard, the Golden Spike Tower, and Great Acts of Kindness on October 10th, both at 10am PDT; info on membership and becoming a docent. Click here (PDF).

From the Freighthouse 8/19/20

This issue of "From the Freighthouse" includes: The next Parlor Car Chats (online) are Garden Railroads on August 29th and Cumbres and Toltec's Geology Special on September 12th, both at 10am PDT; info on membership and becoming a docent. Click here (PDF).

From the Freighthouse 7/25/20

This issue of "From the Freighthouse" includes: The next Parlor Car Chats are Colorado Fall Colors by Speeder Part 1 August 1st and The "Real" 150th Golden Spike and Colorado Fall Colors by Speeder Part 2, online, August 15th, both at 10am PDT; info on membership and becoming a docent. Click here (PDF).

From the Freighthouse 7/13/20

This issue of "From the Freighthouse" includes: The next Parlor Car Chats are SMV #205 July 18th and Royal Gorge Route Railroad, online, July 25th, both at 10am PDT; info on membership and becoming a docent. Click here (PDF).

From the Freighthouse 6/15/20

This issue of "From the Freighthouse" includes: The next Parlor Car Chats are Ten Central Coast Railroad Festivals June 20th and Pacific Harbor Line and LA Ports, online, June 27th, both at 10am PDT; info on membership and becoming a docent. Click here (PDF).

From the Freighthouse 6/4/20

This issue of "From the Freighthouse" includes: The next Parlor Car Chats are Rail Route Guide: SLO to Paso Robles June 6th and Railroad Chapel Cars, online, June 13th, both at 10am PDT; info on membership and becoming a docent. Click here (PDF).

From the Freighthouse 5/25/20

This issue of "From the Freighthouse" includes: The next Parlor Car Chat is 150th Anniversary of the Golden Spike, online, May 16th at 10am PDT; info on membership and becoming a docent. Click here (PDF).

From the Freighthouse 5/6/20

This issue of "From the Freighthouse" includes: Parlor Car Chats, online gatherings as-scheduled with a presenter on a topic to keep us focused a little - the first one on May 16th at 10am PDT is a travelogue of sorts on the train trip from SLO to Santa Barbara; info on membership and becoming a docent. Click here (PDF).

From the Freighthouse 1/6/20

This issue of "From the Freighthouse" includes: Modelers' Talk, Noon, Saturday, January 25, 2020; first annual CoastRail, 4-9pm, May 1, 2020; SLO Train Day, May 2, 2020; info on membership and becoming a docent. Click here (PDF).

From the Freighthouse 11/25/19

This issue of "From the Freighthouse" includes: Decorating at the Museum, 10am-2pm, Friday, November 29th; Santa arrives by Surfliner on Saturday, December 7th about 2:30pm (see last year's); Modelers' Talk, Noon, Saturday, January 25, 2020; info on membership and becoming a docent. Click here (PDF).

From the Freighthouse 11/4/19

This issue of "From the Freighthouse" includes: Decorating at the Museum, 10am-2pm, Friday, November 29th; Santa arrives by Surfliner on Saturday, December 7th about 2:30pm (see last year's); info on membership and becoming a docent. Click here (PDF).

From the Freighthouse 9/29/19

This issue of "From the Freighthouse" includes: Central Coast Railroad Festival at the Museum Saturday, October 5th; Overall CCRRF schedule; SLO Train Fest at Bitter Creek Western Railroad on Sunday, October 6th; Santa arrives by Surfliner on Saturday, December 7th about 2:30pm (see last year's); info on membership and becoming a docent. Click here (PDF).

From the Freighthouse 8/30/19

This issue of "From the Freighthouse" includes: Wine-Rail Excursions seats available for 9/20/19; info on membership and becoming a docent. Click here (PDF).

From the Freighthouse 8/25/19

This issue of "From the Freighthouse" includes: Central Coast Railroad Festival at the Museum October 5th; Wine-Rail Excursions for 2019 are sold out, watch for the 2020 schedule early next year; Bitter Creek Western Fundraiser, details; and info on membership and becoming a docent. Click here (PDF).

From the Freighthouse 7/16/19

This issue of "From the Freighthouse" includes: Central Coast Railroad Festival at the Museum October 5th; 2019 Wine-Rail Excursions dates run through October; August 2nd Art After Dark, details; and info on membership and becoming a docent. Click here (PDF).

From the Freighthouse 6/14/19

This issue of "From the Freighthouse" includes: June 22nd Modelers' workshop "super detailing and weathering," details; 2nd Annual Gala Fundraising Dinner at Bitter Creek Western Railroad on June 29th; 2019 Wine-Rail Excursions dates run June-October; August 2nd Art After Dark (see last year's); and info on membership and becoming a docent. Click here (PDF).

From the Freighthouse 5/3/19

This issue of "From the Freighthouse" includes: "Arrival of SP Railroad into SLO" talk by Andrew Merriam on May 4th, details; SLO Train Day set for May 11, 2019; 2nd Annual Gala Fundraising Dinner at Bitter Creek Western Railroad on June 29th; 2019 Wine-Rail Excursions dates are set; Beer Train schedule is posted, too; please consider joining the Events Division; and info on membership and becoming a docent. Click here (PDF).

From the Freighthouse 4/8/19

This issue of "From the Freighthouse" includes: "Will This Be on the Test?" talk and book signing by Jim Gregory on April 13th, details; "Arrival of SP Railroad into SLO" talk by Andrew Merriam on May 4th, details; SLO Train Day set for May 11, 2019; 2nd Annual Gala Fundraising Dinner at Bitter Creek Western Railroad on June 29th; 2019 Wine-Rail Excursions dates are set; Beer Train schedule is posted, too; and info on membership and becoming a docent. Click here (PDF).

From the Freighthouse 2/22/19

This issue of "From the Freighthouse" includes: Vote SAN LUIS OBISPO RAILROAD MUSEUM as "Your Favorite Charity" for our chance to win $10,000, now through March 1, 2019. Vote here; next BSA Merit Badge class set for March 10, 2019, 1-4:30pm; 2019 Wine-Rail Excursions dates set, details; Beer Train schedule is posted, too, details; "Will This Be on the Test?" talk and book signing by Jim Gregory, details; Cal Poly Lion Dancers featured at SLO Train Day set for May 11th, details; and info on membership and becoming a docent. Click here (PDF).

From the Freighthouse 1/2/19

This issue of "From the Freighthouse" includes: next BSA Merit Badge class set for March 10, 2019, 1-4:30pm; 2019 Wine-Rail Excursions dates set - details; Beer Train schedule coming soon; Who Are They, railworkers in our area during WW II, and check out our new People Tracker; SLO Train Day set for May 11th (see last year's); and info on membership and becoming a docent. Click here (PDF).

From the Freighthouse 11/29/18

This issue of "From the Freighthouse" includes: next BSA Merit Badge class set for March 10, 2019, 1-4:30pm; 2019 Wine-Rail Excursions - watch for next season's schedule in this newsletter and on the website, Beer Trains, too; Santa arrives on the Surfliner December 1st about 2:30pm; and info on membership and becoming a docent. Click here (PDF).

From the Freighthouse 10/3/18

This issue of "From the Freighthouse" includes: 2018 Wine-Rail Excursions are sold out - watch for next season's schedule in this newsletter; first ever Beer Train is sold out, too; Central Coast Railroad Festival set for October 5-7, 2018 starts tomorrow, visit CCRRF.com and check out the Schedule of Events; new Plymouth Diesel 20-ton switcher has arrived (info); Santa is arriving on the Surfliner December 1st about 2:30pm; and info on membership and becoming a docent. Click here (PDF).

From the Freighthouse 9/10/18

This issue of "From the Freighthouse" includes: 2018 Wine-Rail Excursions are sold out; first ever Beer Train is set for October 6th, details; Central Coast Railroad Festival set for October 5-7, 2018, visit CCRRF.com and check out the Schedule of Events; Santa is arriving on the Surfliner December 1st about 2:30pm; and info on membership and becoming a docent. Click here (PDF).

From the Freighthouse 8/7/18

This issue of "From the Freighthouse" includes: 2018 Wine-Rail Excursions almost sold out; Trains and Tapas at the Museum Saturday, August 25th, details; Central Coast Railroad Festival set for October 5-7, 2018, visit CCRRF.com; NEW: October 6th Beer Train to Barrelhouse Brewing Company, details; and info on membership and becoming a docent. Click here (PDF).

From the Freighthouse 7/6/18

This issue of "From the Freighthouse" includes: 2018 Wine-Rail Excursions are selling out; Trains and Tapas at the Museum Saturday, August 25th, details; Central Coast Railroad Festival set for October 5-7, 2018, visit CCRRF.com; and info on membership and becoming a docent. Click here (PDF).

From the Freighthouse 5/25/18

This issue of "From the Freighthouse" includes: Wine-Rail Excursions 2018 schedule; Gala Fundraising Dinner at Bitter Creek Western Railroad on June 9th, details; Central Coast Railroad Festival set for October 5-7, 2018, visit CCRRF.com; and info on membership and becoming a docent. Click here (PDF).

From the Freighthouse 4/25/18

This issue of "From the Freighthouse" includes: Wine-Rail Excursions 2018 schedule; May 5th SLO Train Day; and both have special member pricing. Click here (PDF).

From the Freighthouse 3/20/18

This issue of "From the Freighthouse" includes: Wine-Rail Excursions are back for 2018; so our private railcar trips (details); and both have special member pricing. Click here (PDF).

From the Freighthouse 3/3/18

This issue of "From the Freighthouse" includes: Wine-Rail Excursions are back for 2018; the Central Coast Model Railroad group thanks those contributing to Cuesta Grade section; Don Loats family donates portion of fantasy holiday village (pictured above); SLO Train Day set for May 5th (see last year's); Heroines of the Rails, March 24th, 3pm; and a reminder that memberships are $36/year for individuals and $60/year for families. Click here (PDF).

From the Freighthouse 1/30/18

This issue of "From the Freighthouse" includes: the next Central Coast Model Railroad talk is set for February 24th, 2-3pm; Art After Dark at the Museum on February 2, 2018 from 6-9pm; next BSA Merit Badge class set for March 4th, 1-4:30pm; Heroines of the Rails, March 24th, 3pm; Wine-Rail Excursions are back for 2018; SLO Train Day is May 5th; and a reminder that memberships are $36/year for individuals and $60/year for families. Join before February 15th and get a $10 discount on a ticket for any Wine-Rail Excursion this year. Get $10 off each of two tickets with a Family Membership. Click here (PDF).

From the Freighthouse 1/8/18

This issue of "From the Freighthouse" includes: congratulations to Bob Wilson, SLORRM Docent of the Year for 2017; SLORRM's first model railroad talk - Southern Pacific Operations of the Cuesta Grade circa 1953, January 27th, 3-4pm; Art After Dark at the Museum on February 2, 2018 from 6-9pm; next BSA Merit Badge class set for March 4th, 1-4:30pm; Heroines of the Rails, March 24th, 3pm; a Summer full of Wine-Rail Excursions; and a reminder that memberships are $36/year for individuals and $60/year for families. Join before February 15th and get a $10 discount on a ticket for any Wine-Rail Excursion this year. Get $10 off each of two tickets with a Family Membership. Click here (PDF).

From the Freighthouse 11/26/17

This issue of "From the Freighthouse" includes: South County Holiday Parade, December 2nd, 10am; the Museum is all decorated for the Holidays; Santa arrives by Surfliner on December 2, 2017 at 2:30pm; Art After Dark at the Museum on February 2, 2018 from 6-9pm; next BSA Merit Badge class set for March 4th, 1-4:30pm; Heroines on the Rails, March 24th, 3pm; and a reminder that memberships are $36/year for individuals and $60/year for families. Join now and get 2 months free. Click here (PDF).

From the Freighthouse 10/24/17

This issue of "From the Freighthouse" includes: Tracks 101 - last session this Saturday, 3pm; Movies at the Museum on Ocotber 28th, 4pm, "Midnight Limited," included with Museum admission; Decorating Day, November 24th, 10am-4pm, members only; Santa arrives by Surfliner on December 2, 2017 at 2:30pm; Art After Dark at the Museum on February 2, 2018 from 6-9pm; and a reminder that memberships are $36/year for individuals and $60/year for families. Join now and get 2 months free. Click here (PDF).

From the Freighthouse 9/27/17

This issue of "From the Freighthouse" includes: Tracks 101 - learn the nuts and bolts of trains, 3pm Saturdays September through October; Boy Scout Railroading Merit Badge October 22, 2017; Central Coast Railroad Festival October 13-15, 2017; Movies at the Museum on Ocotber 28th, 4pm, "Midnight Linited," included with Museum admission; Decorating Day, November 24th, 10am-4pm; Santa arrives by Surfliner on December 2, 2017; and a reminder that memberships are $36/year for individuals and $60/year for families, add $20 and get a free book. Click here (PDF).

From the Freighthouse 8/28/17

This issue of "From the Freighthouse" includes: We set a record for number of kids touring the Museum; Tracks 101 - learn the nuts and bolts of trains, 3pm Saturdays September through October; Wine Rail Excursions October 6th and 20th, now wait-list only; Boy Scout Railroading Merit Badge October 22, 2017; Central Coast Railroad Festival October 13-15, 2017; Santa arrives by Surfliner on December 2, 2017; and a reminder that memberships are $36/year for individuals and $60/year for families, add $20 and get a free book. Click here (PDF).

From the Freighthouse 7/21/17

This issue of "From the Freighthouse" includes: Tracks 101 - learn the nuts and bolts of trains, 3pm Saturdays September through October; Wine Rail Excursions set for August 4th and October 6th; Boy Scout Railroading Merit Badge October 22, 2017; Central Coast Railroad Festival October 13-15, 2017; Santa arrives by Surfliner on December 2, 2017; and a reminder that memberships are $36/year for individuals and $60/year for families, add $20 and get a free book. Click here (PDF).

From the Freighthouse 5/27/17

This issue of "From the Freighthouse" includes: SLO Train Day was May 13th; Jim Gregory's talk on July 1st, "Outlaws, Villains, and Scalawags in San Luis Obispo County"; Wine Rail Excursions set for August 4th and October 6th; Art After Dark at the Museum on July 7th; and a reminder that memberships are $36/year for individuals and $60/year for families, add $20 and get a free book. Click here (PDF).

From the Freighthouse 4/19/17

This issue of "From the Freighthouse" includes: SLO Train Day is May 13th; Wine Rail Excursions set for August 4th and October 6th; Art After Dark at the Museum on July 7th; and a reminder that memberships are $36/year for individuals and $60/year for families, add $20 and get a free book. Click here (PDF).

From the Freighthouse 3/8/17

This issue of "From the Freighthouse" includes: March 11th, 11am, is a talk by Phil Tillman entitled "History of Bagpipe Music"; Wine Rail Excursion set for Cinco de Mayo, May 5th, $75 includes Pomar Junction wine tasting and entertainment (details); SLO Train Day is set for May 13th; and a reminder that memberships are now annual (calendar year), add $20 and get a free book. Click here (PDF).

From the Freighthouse 2/10/17

This issue of "From the Freighthouse" includes: March 11th, 11am, is a talk by Phil Tillman entitled "History of Bagpipe Music"; Boy Scout Merit Badge Class, April 9, 2017 (details); Next Wine Rail Excursion set for Cinco de Mayo, May 5th, $75 includes Pomar Junction wine tasting and entertainment (details); SLO Train Day is set for May 13th; and a reminder that memberships are now annual (calendar year), add $20 and get a free book. Click here (PDF).

From the Freighthouse 1/4/17

This issue of "From the Freighthouse" includes: Happy New Year!; January 28th is "The Hurricane Express" (movie) at the Museum, 3pm, along with a talk by Glen Matteson entitled "A Railroad That Never Was"; March 11th, 11am, is a talk by Phil Tillman entitled "History of Bagpipe Music"; Boy Scout Merit Badge Class, January 22, 2017 (details); Next Wine Rail Excursion set for Cinco de Mayo, May 5th, $75 includes Pomar Junction wine tasting and entertainment (details); SLO Train Day is set for May 13th; and a reminder that memberships are now annual (calendar year), add $20 and get a free book. Click here (PDF).

From the Freighthouse 12/16/16

This issue of "From the Freighthouse" includes: Come see the Holidays at the Museum; Boy Scout Merit Badge Class, January 22, 2017 (details); Santa arrived by Surfliner on Saturday, December 3rd (photos); movie and presentation at the Museum, Saturday, January 28, 2017; and a request for members interested in becoming docents and volunteers. Click here (PDF).

From the Freighthouse 11/21/16

This issue of "From the Freighthouse" includes: collecting toys for KSBY's Season of Hope; decorating day at the Museum November 25th; Santa arrives by Surfliner on Saturday, December 3rd at 1pm; the next BSA merit badge award day will be January 22, 2017; movie and presentation at the Museum, Saturday, January 28, 2017; and a request for members interested in becoming docents and volunteers. Click here (PDF).

From the Freighthouse 10/24/16

This issue of "From the Freighthouse" includes: free admission to the Museum on October 29th for anyone in costume; the next BSA merit badge award day will be January 22, 2017; Santa arrives by Surfliner on Saturday, December 3rd at 1pm; a bus tour of the Pacific Coast Railway right-of-way on Nov. 13th (details); decorating day at the Museum November 25th; and a request for members interested in becoming docents and volunteers. Click here (PDF).

From the Freighthouse 9/30/16

This issue of "From the Freighthouse" includes: a reminder that the Central Coast Railroad Festival is scheduled for October 7-9, 2016; Museum members erect the Semaphore Signal Street Sign; the Museum has two certified Operation Lifesaver folks; the next BSA merit badge award day on October 16th is sold out; Santa arrives by Surfliner on Saturday, December 3rd at 1pm; a bus tour of the Pacific Coast Railway right-of-way on Nov. 13th (details); decorating day at the Museum November 25th; and a request for members interested in becoming docents and volunteers. Click here (PDF).

From the Freighthouse 8/16/16

This issue of "From the Freighthouse" includes: our historic railcar excursion on September 17th (updated options); a wine-rail excursion to Pomar Junction Winery on October 7th (details); our 1903 Southern Pacific Tank Car arrives (story/photos); Guiness World Record Z-scale collection at the Museum September 17th; the next BSA merit badge award day on October 16th is sold out; Santa arrives by Surfliner on Saturday, December 3rd at 1pm; a reminder that the Central Coast Railroad Festival is scheduled for October 7-9, 2016; and a request for members interested in becoming docents and volunteers. Click here (PDF).

From the Freighthouse 7/29/16

This issue of "From the Freighthouse" includes: our historic railcar excursion on September 17th (details); a wine-rail excursion to Pomar Junction Winery on October 7th (details); The Great Locomotive Chase movie and Glen Matteson talk on August 13th; a reminder of the next BSA merit badge award day on October 16th; Santa arrives by Surfliner on Saturday, December 3rd at 1pm; a reminder that the Central Coast Railroad Festival is scheduled for October 7-9, 2016; and a request for members interested in becoming docents and volunteers. Click here (PDF).

From the Freighthouse 6/28/16

This issue of "From the Freighthouse" includes: an announcement of the July 12 Board vote on proposed ByLaws changes, a newly scheduled set of historic railcar excursions on September 17th (details), a wine-rail excursion to Pomar Junction Winery on October 7th (details), The Great Locomotive Chase movie and Glen Matteson talk on August 13th, a photo from the April 24th Merit Badge program and a reminder of the next BSA merit badge cycle, an update on the Caboose #1886 window restoration (details), a reminder that the Central Coast Railroad Festival is scheduled for October 7-9, 2016, and a request for members interested in volunteering at the Museum. Click here (PDF).

From the Freighthouse 6/14/16

This issue of "From the Freighthouse" includes: Museum docents visit the Estrella Warbird Museum, a wine-rail excursion to Pomar Junction Winery on October 7th (details), The Great Locomotive Chase movie and talk on August 13th, a photo from the April 24th Merit Badge program and a reminder of the next BSA merit badge cycle, an update on the Caboose #1886 window restoration (details), a reminder that the Central Coast Railroad Festival is scheduled for October 7-9, 2016, and a request for members interested in becoming docents. Click here (PDF).

From the Freighthouse 5/24/16

This issue of "From the Freighthouse" includes: a wine-rail excursion to Pomar Junction Winery on October 7th (details), photos from May 7th SLO Train Day (photos), The Great Locomotive Chase movie and talk on August 13th, photos from the May 20th Scout-O-Rama and a reminder of the next BSA merit badge cycle, an update on the Caboose #1886 restoration, a reminder that the Central Coast Railroad Festival is scheduled for October 7-9, 2016, and a request for members interested in becoming docents. Click here (PDF).

From the Freighthouse 4/30/16

This issue of "From the Freighthouse" includes: BSA Merit Badge class gradutes (photos), a wine-rail excursion to Pomar Junction Winery on May 6th (details), information about our upcoming May 7th SLO Train Day (details), The Great Locomotive Chase movie and talk on August 13th, a reminder that the Central Coast Railroad Festival is scheduled for October 7-9, 2016, and a request for members interested in becoming docents. Click here (PDF).

From the Freighthouse 4/15/16

Portrait of Arnold Jonas

This issue of "From the Freighthouse" includes: the passing of Arnold Jonas, a wine-rail excursion to Pomar Junction Winery on May 6th (details), information about our upcoming May 7th SLO Train Day (details), a reminder that the Central Coast Railroad Festival is scheduled for October 7-9, 2016, and a request for members interested in becoming docents. Click here (PDF).

From the Freighthouse 3/22/16

This issue of "From the Freighthouse" includes: a photo from the UP Business Special Visit, a recap of the talk and book signing on "World War II Arroyo Grande" on March 19th, the Boy Scout Merit Badge Program (details) culminating on April 24th, a wine-rail excursion to Pomar Junction Winery on May 6th, information about our upcoming May 7th SLO Train Day, a reminder that the Central Coast Railroad Festival is scheduled for October 7-9, 2016, and a request for members interested in becoming docents. Click here (PDF).

From the Freighthouse 3/4/16

This issue of "From the Freighthouse" includes: a photo from the Chinese Lunar New Year Celebration at the Museum on February 20th, the talk and book signing on "World War II Arroyo Grande" on March 19th, the Boy Scout Merit Badge Program (details) culminating on April 24th, a wine-rail excursion to Pomar Junction Winery on May 6th, a note for those who may want to have a table on the platform during May 7th's SLO Train Day, and a reminder that the Central Coast Railroad Festival is scheduled for October 7-9, 2016. Click here (PDF).

From the Freighthouse 2/11/16

This issue of "From the Freighthouse" includes: an update on the funding progress for the PCRy boxcar restoration, the Sweetheart rail excursion on February 6th (photos), the Chinese Lunar New Year Celebration at the Museum on February 20th, the talk and book signing on "World War II Arroyo Grande" on March 19th, the Boy Scout Merit Badge Program (details), A wine-rail excursion to Pomar Junction Winery on May 6th, a note for those who may want to have a table on the platform during May 7th's SLO Train Day, and a reminder that the Central Coast Railroad Festival is scheduled for October 7-9, 2016. Click here (PDF).

From the Freighthouse 1/30/16

Himoto Rademaker photo

This issue of "From the Freighthouse" includes: the annual membership reception including the Distinguished Service Awards (pictured above are Rob Himoto and Pierre Rademaker, more photos), the opening of the Pacific Coast Railway Exhibit (photos), the Sweetheart rail excursion on February 6th (details), the Chinese Lunar New Year at the Museum on February 20th, the talk and book signing on "World War II Arroyo Grande" on March 19th, the Boy Scout Merit Badge Program (details), and a note for those who may want to have a table on the platform during May 7th's SLO Train Day. Click here (PDF).

From the Freighthouse 1/16/16

This issue of "From the Freighthouse" includes: Pacific Coast Railway Exhibit Opening and Reception January 23rd, Sweetheart Special Private Excursion on February 6th, Chinese Lunar New Year celebration February 20th at the Museum, book signing of March 19th, and end-of-year giving. Click here (PDF).

From the Freighthouse 12/30/15

ANNUAL MEMBERSHIP MEETING/RECEPTION
SUNDAY, JANUARY 10th, 3-5 pm
ALL MEMBERS ARE INVITED
Following Board Meeting at 2:30 pm
To celebrate the end of our second year in operation, we want to thank our members with a private reception. Please join us as we present Distinguished Service Awards to three of our longtime members. We also want to hear your ideas about what we are doing and what you would like to see in the future. We will have hors d'oeuvres, soda and wine. This catered event is FREE for members. Join or Renew now. Please RSVP to media@slorrm.com.

From the Freighthouse 12/24/15

This issue of "From the Freighthouse" includes: photos from Santa's visit to the Museum, the Atascadero Christian Community tours the Museum, members reception January 10th, end-of-year giving, Pacific Coast Railway Exhibit Opening and Reception January 23rd, Sweetheart Special Private Excursion on February 6th, Chinese Lunar New Year celebration February 20th at the Museum, and please renew your membership before the first of the year. Click here (PDF).

From the Freighthouse 12/9/15

This issue of "From the Freighthouse" includes: The halls are all decked out for the holidays, members reception January 10th, 100 at $100 at Year-End, Pacific Coast Railway Exhibit Opening and Reception January 23rd, and one free admission for the day for each new unwrapped toy brought for Season of Hope on December 12th. Members, please renew your membership before the first of the year. Lastly, Santa arrives December 12th on the 1pm Surfliner. Click here (PDF).

From the Freighthouse 11/23/15

This issue of "From the Freighthouse" includes: 100 at $100 at Year-End, consider becoming a Board member, the Pacific Coast Railway exhibit will be moved to the Museum - watch for a January unveiling, let's get the caboose fixed up and painted, holiday decorating on November 27th and 28th, specials during the holidays including 2-for-1 admissions for kids when you bring a toy to donate to the Season of Hope toy drive, and Chinese Lunar New Year at the Museum on February 20th. Members, please renew your membership before the first of the year. Lastly, Santa arrives December 12th on the 1pm Surfliner. Click here (PDF).

From the Freighthouse 10/20/15

This issue of "From the Freighthouse" includes: thanks for joining us at the Central Coast Railroad Festival, special events coming up soon in Templeton and Guadalupe, the PCRy exhibit at the History Center, our Halloween special, holiday decorating on November 27th and 28th, two private car excursions on December 12th, and specials during the holidays including 2-for-1 admissions for kids when you bring a toy to donate to the Season of Hope toy drive. Members, please renew your membership before the first of the year. Lastly, Santa arrives December 12th on the 1pm Surfliner. Click here (PDF).

From the Freighthouse 9/28/15

This issue of "From the Freighthouse" includes: two private car excursions on December 12th, the Central Coast Railroad Festival October 1-4, Santa's coming by train on December 12th, and other upcoming activities. Click here (PDF).

From the Freighthouse 9/3/15

This issue of "From the Freighthouse" includes: two private car excursions on September 19th, a Pacific Coast Railway talk by Andrew Merriam on September 19th at the Museum, the Central Coast Railroad Festival October 1-4, now open EVERY saturday, Santa's coming by train on December 12th, and other upcoming activities. Click here (PDF).

From the Freighthouse 8/21/15

This issue of "From the Freighthouse" includes: tiny explorers visiting the Museum, two private car excursions announced for September 19th, a Pacific Coast Railway talk by Andrew Merriam on September 19th at the Museum, the Central Coast Railroad Festival October 1-4, now open EVERY saturday, and other upcoming activities. Click here (PDF).

From the Freighthouse 8/3/15

This issue of "From the Freighthouse" includes: information about the Pacific Coast Railway dislpay at the History Museum, two private car excursions announced for September 19th, parties at the SLO Railroad Museum, and other upcoming activities. Click here (PDF).

From the Freighthouse 7/13/15

This issue of "From the Freighthouse" includes: SLORRM exhibits in Templeton's 4th of July parade, two new private car excursions announced for September 19th, and some photos for each. Click here (PDF).

From the Freighthouse 6/16/15

This issue of "From the Freighthouse" includes: New Panoramic Photos in the Museum, Progress on the Model Railroads, Changes in the Coast Mail Newsletter, and Upcoming events. Click here (PDF).

From the Freighthouse 5/28/15

This issue of "From the Freighthouse" includes: Everyone Loves Kids Challege visits on May 18th, the caboose is getting its new upholstery, and the Upcoming June 20th private railcar trip is SOLD OUT. Click here (PDF).

From the Freighthouse 5/14/15

photo of dedication with breaking champagne on railcar

This issue of "From the Freighthouse" includes SLO Train Day on May 9th (the christening of the La Cuesta was part of the day), the caboose chair repair project, and the Central Coast Railroad Festival in October. Also in the Upcoming category is the June 20th private railcar trip. Click here (PDF).

From the Freighthouse 4/27/15

Click Here

This issue of "From the Freighthouse" includes an update on movement of storage items in the Emily Street yard (pictured above), a photo from the Puttin' on the Ritz event, and reminders about the June 20th private car excursion and SLO Train Day on May 9th. Oh, and the Central Coast Railroad Festival in October, too. There's a also a request for docent volunteers. Click here (PDF).

From the Freighthouse 3/30/15

This issue of "From the Freighthouse" includes an update on the caboose restoration along with information about the June 20th private car excursion, a reminder of several upcoming events including the April 23rd Gala Dinner/Auction by the Friends of the Santa Maria Valley Railroad, National Train Day on May 9th, and the Central Coast Railroad Festival in October. Also included is a note about the Museum's primary newsletter, "Coast Mail". Click here (PDF).

From the Freighthouse 3/10/15

This issue of "From the Freighthouse" includes information about the June 20th private car excursion, a reminder of several upcoming events including the April 23rd Gala Dinner/Auction by the Friends of the Santa Maria Valley Railroad, National Train Day on May 9th, and the Central Coast Railroad Festival in October. Also included is an update on the Caboose restoration project. Click here (PDF).

From the Freighthouse 2/13/15

group photo at caboose

This issue of "From the Freighthouse" includes a thank you to Rick Engineering for a caboose chair reupholstering and announcements of upcoming events: the April 23rd Gala Dinner/Auction by the Friends of the Santa Maria Valley Railroad, National Train Day (now Amtrak Train Days) on May 9th, and a private car excursion on June 20th. Click here (PDF).

From the Freighthouse 1/29/15

This issue of "From the Freighthouse" includes an announcement of the 2015 Board of Directors, and a reminder of the April 23rd Gala Dinner/Auction by the Friends of the Santa Maria Valley Railroad. Click here (PDF).

From the Freighthouse 1/21/15

party on platform

This issue of "From the Freighthouse" includes photos from a birthday party on the platform, an announcement of the April 23rd Gala Dinner/Auction by the Friends of the Santa Maria Valley Railroad, and a Thank You and continued call to support the reupholstering of Caboose Chairs. Click here (PDF).

From the Freighthouse 1/7/15

This issue of "From the Freighthouse" includes photos from the various Holiday Events, an announcement of our Annual Meeting on January 13th, and a call to support the reupholstering of Caboose Chairs. Click here (PDF).

From the Freighthouse 12/25/14

This issue of "From the Freighthouse" includes photos from the Phillips 66 contribution of $30,000 for Museum Displays on the 19th and a reminder of this coming Saturday's (27th) Holiday Open House from 10am to 4pm followed by a Members' Potluck starting at 4pm. Click here (PDF).

From the Freighthouse 12/10/14

This issue of "From the Freighthouse" includes photos from the Christmas decorating event last Saturday and a reminder of this coming Saturday's Holiday Open House from 10am to 4pm. Click here (PDF).

holiday train photo

From the Freighthouse 11/28/14

This issue of "From the Freighthouse" includes story and photos from three recent visiting groups. It also includes holiday plans at the Museum: decorating on the 6th and a Holiday Open House on the 13th complete with holiday treats, running toy trains, and 50% off vintage books. And lastly, a special Member event at closing time (4pm) on the 27th. Click here (PDF).

From the Freighthouse 11/7/14

Click Here (PDF) This issue of "From the Freighthouse" (here's the PDF) includes story and photos from the training car visit, La Condesa accomplishments and plans, the Southern Pacific Historical & Technical Society visit, three special events in December, and a blurb about "Puttin' on the Ritz" in April.

From the Freighthouse 10/18/14

Click Here (PDF) This issue of "From the Freighthouse" (here's the PDF) includes story and photos from the October 4th Overland Trail excursion, a run-down of upcoming Events at the Museum, and a description of our new Train Tales program. It also introduces two major events/fundraisers for 2015: an April 23, 2015 gala dinner at Monarch Dunes and the 2015 Central Coast Railroad Festival (October 1-4).

From the Freighthouse 8/27/14

Click Here (PDF) This issue of "From the Freighthouse" (here's the PDF) includes story and photos from the Girl Scout troop visit. The issue also includes a rundown of other recent happenings at the museum and a schedule of upcoming events.

From the Freighthouse 8/4/14

Click Here (PDF) This issue of "From the Freighthouse" (here's the PDF) includes story and photos from the August 2nd work day and visit by the Shutterfly Group. The issue also includes a list of "What's Coming Up" in August and September.

From the Freighthouse 7/9/14

Click Here (PDF) This issue of "From the Freighthouse" (here's the PDF) includes story and photos from the June 28 Members' Wine Reception as well as updates on various activities in and around the Museum this past month or so. At right, members enjoy their first visit to the La Condesa now sitting dockside at the Freighthouse.

From the Freighthouse 6/14/14

This issue of "From the Freighthouse" (here's the PDF) includes the June 28 Members' Wine Reception, the LaCondesa move, Brad gives a talk to a local group, and a move to adding the 4th Saturday to the open schedule.

From the Freighthouse 5/15/14

Click Here (PDF) This issue of "From the Freighthouse" (here's the PDF) includes National Train Day, a moon over a wigwag, this new website, and some upcoming work and open dates.

From the Freighthouse 4/24/14

Click Here (PDF) This issue of "From the Freighthouse" (here's the PDF) includes completed bathrooms, the Coast Rails 2014 PCR Convention on May 3rd, National Train Day on May 10th, and a photo from the model railroad.

From the Freighthouse 4/14/14

Click Here (PDF) This issue of "From the Freighthouse" (here's the PDF) includes photos and a brief story about the recent Work and Open Day, baggage cart painting, a new website design, and National Train Day.