Illinois Railway Museum Blog

not a major report this time folks, but we are going to try and keep it up so our remote friends can follow our progress.

On the heavyweight front, Mike and Ray are making some progress on the DLW coach doorframe...operating crews know it well...the one that never can open. ATSF 2544 is moving along, repairing the wall behind the "new" seats and then Mark Hoffman is finishing and priming. The continued cold is slowing things down a bit as it is hard to paint until the walls are consisitently warm.

Over in Yard 5 the work contiues in Birmionghams kitchen. The entry air curtain is now working, and the final step will be to replace the wall section above the breakfront in the vestibule of the dining area. We hope to have that part finished this week, so we can move along into the other cars to prepare for spring.

Marc has begun to open up the furniture to air out.

All are welcome to stop by during the day on Saturday, if you make it out before the operating dept soiree. The coffee will be on and we will have a few light snacks, if folks just want to "stop and set a spell".

Spring time will, as usual, bring a flurry of activity as we begin to prepare for season. Lots of housework and setup will be needed, so anyone that can is invited to join in the fun.

In addition we continue to have several display ideas that will need the human touch both in setup and as docents to guide our visitors through. We want to open more equuipment this year, but will need folks that can be around to explain, and of course monitor.

Its not a lot of strenuous work, but it can be a great time if you are interested.

One day, one day a month, or every weekend, it doesnt matter. We can adjust our plans to fit your interest.

Susan Marie, IC, DMIR set is on the agenda,  and Ely is also a possibility. These will require someone to be the "historian/tourguide/docent" t obe open for visitors.

Have a great week.