FORT WAYNE, Ind. — The Fort Wayne Railroad Historical Society announced a $50,000 matching grant for the restoration of seven former New York Central passenger cars. Built in 1941 for the Empire State Express, they were acquired from New York’s Rochester & Genesee Valley Railroad Museum and arrived at the Fort Wayne group’s shop in New Haven, Ind., last summer [See “Fort Wayne Railroad Historical Society acquires…” News Wire, Aug 30, 2023].
The donor grant will match all donations of $250 or more through the end of 2023.
In a Nov. 16, 2023, news release, the society states each car will receive an estimated $160,000 or more in mechanical and electrical upgrades, in addition to general repairs. The non-profit organization plans to have one coach ready for excursion service in 2024. With a total cost projected at $1.2 million, the long-term goal is to see the entire set in operation as part of the Indiana Rail Experience — a partnership of events and excursions between FWRHS and short line Indiana Northeastern Railroad Co.
“Each restored car will become a time machine that welcomes more visitors to our region, allowing us to preserve and showcase more of the country’s incredible industrial heritage,” said Kelly Lynch, vice president of the Fort Wayne Railroad Historical Society. “With this generous matching grant, only 200 donors of $250.00 or more are needed to help us raise $100,000.”
Since the inauguration of the Indiana Rail Experience in 2022, Fort Wayne Railroad has been building an excursion consist for use behind the group’s Nickel Place Road 2-8-4 No. 765 and SD9 diesel No. No. 358, titled the “Great Steel Fleet.” More information on the passenger equipment and contribution opportunities can be found on the group’s campaign website.
An effort that is meaningful, exemplary, and to be congratulated.
Dr. Güntürk Üstün