Oregon Rail Heritage Center

About

2250 SE Water St, Portland, OR 97214

Story

We are proud that Portland is unique as America's only city that owns two operating steam locomotives - the Southern Pacific 4449 and the Spokane Portland Seattle 700; along with a third - Oregon Railway & Navigation 197 - currently under restoration. The SP 4449 pulled our nation's Bicentennial Train and may well be the most photographed locomotive in the world. Now these engines need your help!

After their donation to the city in 1958, these three steam engines sat in the weather at Oaks Amusement Park for decades. Starting in 1980 each moved for restoration to the Brooklyn Roundhouse in southeast Portland. It took three decades and thousands of volunteer hours to get restore two of them into operating condition.

Now we face a crisis! The deadline is near to secure a permanent home for Portland's heritage steam engines. In less than a year these iron links to the past will be forced out of the Brooklyn Roundhouse in Southeast Portland.

Thankfully many people - like you - have stepped forward to support our All Aboard capital campaign to move and save these community treasures. One year ago we set out to raise $4.7 million - today we are within $500,000 of having the funds needed to start construction. This is where you come in.

Please join in support of the All Aboard campaign to save the engines in a new home near OMSI. Our new Rail Heritage Center will provide space for locomotive maintenance and restoration, and direct public access.

When fully built, the Center will be a living workroom to celebrate the history of rail and be a focal point for the new rail-industry hub surrounding OMSI. The new Willamette Bridge will deliver streetcars, light rail, cyclists and pedestrians right to the Center's front door.

We must save the past for future generations. Steam drove the 19th and 20th centuries, its momentum still has a lot to teach us in the 21st century. Our children and grandchildren can learn this story and nothing brings this to life like steam locomotives

We have a giving level that is just right for you. They range from $44.49 to $700, and your contribution comes with a premium gift.

All Aboard Portland's heritage steam engines - save the past for future generations. Can we count on your support today?

Mission

To provide for the preservation, operation and public enjoyment of Portland's historic locomotives, railroad equipment, and artifacts, and to educate the public about Oregon’s rich and diverse railroad history.