1927 REO Bickel Fire truck
The NRM’s second open house is now a thing of the past.? I’m not sure of the exact visitor count, but I can say that the shop had a steady flow of visitors both Saturday & Sunday.? We heard nothing but positive comments, and have people from across the Niagara Region, and even from the US.? The weather Saturday was great, nice and sunny, and warm.? This allowed the Fort Erie LaFrance Association to bring out their 1927 Bickel fire truck for display.? They had originally planned to bring out more than one truck, but didn’t have enough drivers due to sickness.? This was their first visit and it surely won’t be the last, as we have invited them back to any of our open houses in the future.? It adds to our displays, and gives them exposure as well.?In July, a headlight and CPR bell were donated to the NRM, with the instructions that they be used strictly on HEPC 46 (although we were told that if we wanted to temporarily? display the headlight on other equipment, we could).
HEPC E-7
We decided that since 46 had her front headlight on (the new headlight will be used on the back of 46) the other headlight should go on E-7 for display.? It looked pretty good with both locomotives beside each other with headlights.
The Southern Niagara Model Railroad Club brought their small HO scale layout, and the Ontario Northland Railway H&TS also had a display at the show.? The ONR display showed photos, books, and models of ONR equipment over the years.
The Niagara Railway Museum’s newly donated HO layout was also on display at the open house, and was very well recieved.? The layout is being rebuilt slightly, with new track, and more scenery, but other than that, it is pretty much staying as it is.? It is a double track layout, with a large mountain at one end.
Southern Ontario Model Railroad Club HO Layout on display
A bit more of the shop was open to visitors this time, as we kept all 3 locomotives inside.? The upper level inspection platform was open for people to walk up and look inside the cab of E-7 & 46.? They could also go underneath the platform, where we hung flourescent lights to light up the wheels and undercarriage of the 2 locomotives.? As always, the cab of the Plymouth was open for viewing as well.? The motorcar rides were once again enjoyed by many, and although it is only a short ride, it gives people a chance to ride on a piece of equipment normally only used by Maintenance personnel.
NRM layout
As the museum grows and developes, more will be available for viewing.? The architect is working on the designs for the office area, which will be the main entrance, and artifact display area.??? The restoration to operation of our Plymouth diesel has also started.? The damaged air compressor has been removed, and will be rebuilt.? The motor in the locomotive is in decent shape, and will likely need some rewiring, and new hoses, but there is hope that the engine may be running by the end of the year, possibly sooner.
Thanks to the many NRM members that came out to help with the open house.? The NRM also thanks Modern Corporation in Niagara Falls for the portable
toilets,? The Fort Erie LaFrance Association for the fire truck, and The Southern Niagara Model Railroad Club & ONRH&TS for bringing out their displays.
The Northwest face of the NRM shop, taken about 1030pm Sept. 11.
E-7 & 46 at night
There are still lots of things to do at the NRM, so if you wouldlike to come out and volunteer, drop us an email, or give us a call.? No skills required, just bring yourself, safety boots, and lunch, we’ll do the rest.