SILVIS, Ill. — Union Pacific DDA40X Centennial diesel No. 6936 will be on display at a free “Summer of Safety” open house at the Railroading Heritage of Midwest America shops in Silvis, Ill., later this month, while a concurrent event, the “Walk Amongst the Giants Fundraiser,” will offer a chance to view the two UP steam locomotives under restoration at the facility.
The event is planned for Saturday, June 29, from 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. at the former Rock Island shops, and will feature the Silver Operation Lifesaver Safety team offering information on what to be aware of when around railroad property and equipment. For a small donation, visitors will also have a chance to take a short ride on No. 6936 on the facility’s Fast Track, where locomotives are tested.
The fundraising event will offer tours at 10 a.m., noon, and 2 p.m. for those who donate $125. Participants will receive a one-hour guided tour of the shops where Challenger No. 3985 and 2-10-2 No. 5511 are being restored and have a “hands-on experience” with the locomotives and rolling stock, according to the RRHMA. After the guided tour, there will be free time to explore the locomotives and equipment within the main shop area.
For more information, or to sign up for the “Walk Amongst the Giants Fundraiser,” visit this page on the RRHMA website.
