Fundraising for No. 576 passes $1 million mark NEWSWIRE

Friday morning steam and preservation news:

— The fundraising campaign to restore Nashville, Chattanooga & St. Louis steam locomotive No. 576 has passed the $1 million mark with the announcement of a $100,000 grant from the Walter J. Ferguson Foundation. The nonprofit Nasvhille Steam Preservation Society is leading the effort to restore the 4-8-4, on display in Nashville’s Centennial Park since the 1950s, to full operation condition, with the estimated $2 million project well under way at the Tennessee Central Railway Museum. “My father loved steam locomotives and appreciated their significance to America’s history, and we are proud to support Nashville Steam’s campaign to bring No. 576 back to operation,” said Linda Krater, daughter of the late Mr. Ferguson who now oversees the Foundation. “Beyond the history, we teach our children now about the elements of STEAM education – science, technology, education, arts and math – and this project offers all of those opportunities, both today and for generations to come.” The fundraising effort includes an ongoing matching grant by former rail executives Richard Tower and Wick Moorman, who will match up to $300,000 in contributions of $1,000 or more made by Dec. 31. For more information or to contribute, visit the society’s website.

— The home of the Cudahy, Wis., Historical Society — a former Chicago & North Western depot in the community south of Milwaukee that dates to 1893 —sustained an estimated $15,000 damage in an attack by vandals. Five stained-glass windows were among the damaged artifacts, accounting for $7,000 of the damage. The Milwaukee Journal Sentinel reports that because the depot is a registered historic building, rules govern the repairs, including the need to restore rather than replace items whenever possible. While much of the damage in the late February attack will be covered by insurance, fundraising continues to cover the difference. So far, the society has raised about $3,000 at its website.

— The Durango & Silverton has extended its closure because of the COVID-19 outbreak through May 22, or until further notice. The Durango depot, museum and gift shop will also be remain closed. Information on rebooking or cancellation of reservations is available here.