Illinois Railway Museum Blog

                        Twas the five nights before Christmas and nothing was happening at the Illinois Railway Museum...but... then their arose  such a clatter in the office... it was the sound of letters of donations being opened by Jan, the head office elf.   Across the hallway working in his "headquarters" was Ole, shinny cheeks, St. Nick himself, working on transportation for his new "charges."  The gingerbread smell was missing this year, too much to accomplish, too little time before the big events next year.    Ms. Carol was busy at her conductors desk working on waybills for the raindeer!      A number of HOHOHOHO...Bo's were working their magic in the barns.   On Gerry, On Paul, Dave, John, Pete, Buzz, Henry, Rich, and Roger; they were all prancing around trying to complete the last presents for the boys and girls  aka X38, Ely, 2524, and 300.   One of the elves was not in the woodshop barn today,  I hope Bob is feeling better.   As  the lunch pails appeared the christmas cookies started to disappear.   Created by Paul's Elfette they were a tasty treat for us hard working souls!  As the day wore down to night I heard Santa exclaim........."Merry Christmas to all and to all a good night."                             Seriously,  to all who have donated to IRM's  various projects this year a big hearty THANK YOU!!!!     The funds for the barn 14 building project are slowly arriving.  The response has been very gratifying.                            To all the Big Children who love trains, thanks again for being so generous.     Keep those cards and letters coming!  All the "Elves" say THANK YOU!.....  Roger...  one of the elves....   

After working on reinstalling the vestibule parts I took a break in the fall of 2011.   When the weather turned to the cold side I began working on the roof of the John Mcloughlin.   Since the vestibule looked so nice the peeling, dusty silver gray roof certainly did not compliment the " new look" for display.  Here then are some results of my efforts to improve the sleeper's appearance

My attention will now be turning to the interior women's bathroom. My next blog will feature the before pictures of the bathroom and a sample of the finished product. When considering your next donation to IRM please include the Barn 14 Inside Storage Fund. You'll be glad you did!!!   Roger