The El Dorado County Historical Railroad Museum in the Town of El Dorado, California will be more than a narrow gauge logging center. In the begining we will focus on standard gauge because that's the pre-existing gauge on the line. Later, as a third rail can be added to the line, the El Dorado Western Railway will shift focus to include its narrow gauge collection, including the Diamond and Caldor No. 4 Shay. Realistically, the Shay won't be ready for several years to come. The boiler needs major work, which will require a significant infusion of cash. We believe that it's easiest to get a standard gauge locomotive on the tracks now so that we can start track rehabilitation. The sooner we start giving paid rides, the sooner the D&C No. 4 can be finished. The museum will represent all aspects of railroading in El Dorado County, including the Southern Pacific, Mich-Cal Lumber, Diamond and Caldor Ry./California Door Co. and several mining/quarry operations.
I write about Northern California railroads/railroad issues. I would be more than happy to give this some much needed publicity.
Folsom Railrest this weekend I want to remind all the Northern Calif. and Nevada folks that the Folsom Railfest in this weekend. The El Dorado Western Railway will have a booth where you can talk to members and learn about our program and the El Dorado County Historical Railroad Park in the Town of El Dorado on the Southern Pacific Placerville Branch. It looks like we are going to bring our "new" Whiting Model 3TM Trackmobile, the El Dorado Western Railway No. 601, to the railfest.
I haven't heard that they will have their locos out. The emphasis has been the Skajit, PG&E streetcar, speeders and a handcar.
