Illinois Railway Museum Blog

Here is another in our ongoing series of views of work being done in the Passenger Car Department.  None of these pictures or reports would be possible without member photos, and the efforts to take them.  In this case we need to thank Roger Kramer.  This installment is focused on Boston & Maine 1094, a wood bodied car from the classic era, built by Pullman in 1906.

This another case where volunteer efforts are significant, ongoing, and are probably almost invisible or unknown to many of the readers here.

Dining Area

Volunteer Jack Biesterfeld has worked for several years tackling one area at a time.  This is the dining area, where the interior finishes have been carefully restored and the section furnished with tables and chairs, complete with place settings and plastic 'food'.

Dining Area

More of this restored area.  Lighting has been provided and the scene is visible from the car exterior through the windows, delighting visitors as they walk through Barn 3.

Light Fixture

This elaborate and ornate light fixture is original to the car.

Hallway

The hallway along the kitchen area is missing a window.  This is one of the projects where two new frames were completed by the wood shop over the last cold weather season.

Seating

There is a seating area next to the dining area, and this has seen a lot of work by Jack.  Ted Anderson has also done work here on the seats and frames, and has led the way both to preserve this car and acquire it in the first place.

Right now the car is inside Barn 3 but it is basically 'poaching' indoor space at the discretion of the Department Manager.  I cannot argue with that decision for this fragile wood bodied classic.  But in effect it displaces another passenger car which has paid space.  Donations to fund R1094 will help raise the $15,000 needed to preserve this fine car to assure indoor Barn Space, and to permanently protect the significant restoration efforts.