We are thrilled to announce two separate $10,000 matching fund challenges to support the preservation and restoration of two historically significant rail cars in our collection. Thanks to two generous donors, every dollar you give will be matched dollar-for-dollar, up to $10,000 for these two projects!

🔹 Montana Western #31 (AKA Great Northern #2313): The funds will be used to rebuild the radiator in this oldest surviving EMC gas-electric motorcar. The Montana Western #31 was the 30th unit of its kind and represented the cutting edge of technology at a time when railroads were seeking alternatives to steam service on branch lines.

🔹 Duluth South Shore and Atlantic DULUTH Sleeper Car: This is an extremely rare example of a wooden sleeper car. The matching fund drive is targeted to provide the needed funds to replicate the original Men’s Smoking Room in the DULUTH. The Men’s Smoking Room had two sinks, a saloon (toilet) and a long sofa. This room was the area of the car where men could gather and have a smoke or wash up during their overnight trip along the Duluth South Shore & Atlantic route between Sault Ste. Marie and Duluth, MN. Drawings have already been made and with the $10,000 challenge donation and matching funds, we will be able to construct new mahogany veneer walls (with marquetry) for the smoking room.

The Men’s Smoking Room floorplan in the DULUTH.

The interior of the Men’s Smoking Room as it stands currently.

Help us keep these pieces of history alive! Donate to one or both projects today using the buttons below.