July – August 2017 President’s Report

The summer has gotten off to a good start with good attendance and work continuing on projects in the yard. Justin Chapin, Art Slothower and Bob Pitcher have been working on the exterior of CN car #660, replacing rotted-out metal and painting the car in CN colors. Philip Beard and his crew have gotten the air compressor on the 1455 to work and we can now have it operational as a display during our events. With the help of our operating crew, the locomotive was moved back-and-forth on the track in order to give the running gear a much needed workout. Gerry Herrmann continues work on the New York Central 19322 wooden caboose (see article on page 4 of this issue). Whenever possible, Jim Teer and others have been doing trackwork.

Our turntable restoration is coming along. We have placed an order for the timbers that will be needed. The grant we received from the Mass Bay Railroad Enthusiasts will only cover part of the cost for the timbers. We have a little money already in a restricted fund but that is still not enough. If you care to donate to this project, please mail a check to the museum with a notation for Turntable Restoration.

While I am pleased to see some new members wanting to take part in our operations in the yard and with our layouts, we could use some help with the front desk and gift shop. We have a dedicated group of people who give much of their time to the Museum. From time-to-time, they have other commitments and we are left shorthanded. The tasks involved are easy to learn and we never leave a new person on their own if they are not ready. If you or someone you know would like to help out, please call the Museum and let us know. Thank you.