What’s Next for DULUTH?

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What’s Next for the DULUTH?

Given the scope of the project and the resources needed to restore the DULUTH, the restoration effort will be a multi-year project that will be executed in phases. Now that the DULUTH is back on 6-wheel trucks and has draft gear, the next step will be to reinstall the brake system. Plans also call for moving the DULUTH into one of the museum’s buildings after the completion of Coach Shed #2 (in 2018) to prevent further deterioration and to assist with restoring the car. A detailed scope of work, tasks, and the restoration schedule are presently in the process of being developed. To kick off the next phase of restoration tasks, a $75,000 fundraising effort is underway to allow major material acquisition and some labor cost during the next three years.

Request For Help

Please consider making a donation to the DSS&A Sleeper DULUTH Fund so Mid-Continent can restore the DULUTH sleeping car to its former glory. Make your donation via mail or donate online using the Donate button.



Be sure to write in “DSS&A Sleeper DULUTH Fund” on the printed form or check memo line if sending a donation by mail. Credit/debit card donations can also be accepted by phone at 608-522-4261 or 800-930-1385 during museum office hours. All donations are tax-deductible.

DSS&A sleeping car Duluth interior, May 2017

DSS&A sleeping car Duluth interior, May 2017.

DSS&A Duluth Sleeping Car floor plan in 1924

DSS&A DULUTH sleeping car floor plan in 1924.

DSS&A Duluth Sleeping Car floor plan as of 2017

DSS&A DULUTH sleeping car floor plan as of 2017 after modifications for use as a summer cabin.

Montana Western #31 – Winton Engine Restoration Has Been Successfully Completed

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The mechanical and cosmetic restoration of our model 106A Winton engine has been successfully completed and will be shipped back to Mid-Continent! Watch the engine start up below.

This is a huge step in preserving the Montana Western #31 for future generations to learn about and enjoy. We would like to thank you all for your support in completing this restoration!

For more information on the motor car this engine belongs to, please press the button below.

Montana Western #31

“Last Spike” Ceremony

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Yesterday we celebrated the completion of our 3 million dollar rail relay and infrastructure overhaul with a “Last Spike” ceremony!

Donors and special guests were invited to ride the first train of the 2025 operating season, marking the start of a new chapter for our railway. At the end of the line, attendees gathered for a series of speeches from Mid-Continent President Andy S., Wisconsin State Assemblyman Tony Kurtz, our Roadmaster Dave B., and Superintendent of Engineering Nick V.

The event concluded with the ceremonial driving of a final golden spike, symbolizing the official completion of the project.

This massive overhaul would not have been possible without the incredible support of our generous donors and the dedication of our volunteers and members. Thank you to everyone who played a part in making this project a reality. We’re excited for future generations to enjoy this historic line for decades to come!

Engine House Track #2 Update

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Another rail related update from Mid-Continent! On the weekend of May 3rd and 4th, we replaced the wooden ties and pit timbers on track #2 inside our Engine House! The pit area is critical infrastructure to perform locomotive servicing and regular maintenance making its upkeep integral.

1385 Steam and Air Line Installation/Donation Update

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We have had multiple teams working on various projects and great progress has been made. We are now working on the installation of the steam and air lines. As of right now, we are still looking for funding to bring the #1385 home. Thank you for your continued help and support on the full restoration of the #1385!

Sincerely,

Andy
MCRY President

Donations can be made online by clicking the link: https://www.paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=QWRDMKVLN9CHU

You can also make a donation by phone or mail. (If donating with a check, please write ‘Bring the #1385 Home Fund’ in the memo line.) For assistance, contact our office staff at 608-522-4261. For more information and weekly updated donation fund thermometer, please check out our Facebook or our website post titled, “Your Help is Needed to Bring the C&NW #1385 Home Again!”

#1385 Cab, Smoke Stack, and Hand Rail Installation/Donation Update

Mid-Continent Railway Museum Posted on by

🚂 #1385 Cab, Hand Rails, and Smoke Stack Installation/Donation Update 🚂

The #1385 now has its hand rails and smoke stack installed!

As of today (3/13/2025), we are now up to $23,895 on our Bring the #1385 Home Fund! We have an end goal of $80,000 in order to transport the steam locomotive back to Mid-Continent. For more information and weekly updated donation fund thermometer, please check out our Facebook or our website post titled, “Your Help is Needed to Bring the C&NW #1385 Home Again!”

If you would like to donate online, please click the link: https://www.paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=QWRDMKVLN9CHU

Donations can also be made by phone or mail. (If donating with a check, please write ‘Bring the #1385 Home Fund’ in the memo line.) For assistance, contact our office staff at 608-522-4261.