It's been a busy year so far, and it doesn't look like we'll be able to slow down much this winter. The big project for the months between operating season is an origional Sumpter Valley Railway caboose. Number 3 was constructed by the line at their South Baker shops in May of 1927, and is very similar in design to caboose number 5 which is also on site and operable. The "crummy" served the railway until it was picked up by the US ARMY along with caboose number 4 and shipped to the White Pass & Yukon. Renumbered 911, it ran until the end of the war and was then apparently set on the ground as a cabin. The car languished for decades, until purchased by the Sumpter Valley Railroad Restoration and shipped home. Stabalization work has been done on the car over the years, especially on the interior, but much more work is needed. Number 3 has now been moved indoors, and we've been at work stripping off several layers of roofing to get back down to the original tin. New flooring is also needed, along with fully rebuilt platforms, much of the ironwork, and just about anything else you can think of. It is hoped that the caboose can be returned to service before next season to help alleviate the strain on caboose number 5. Cost of restoration is estimated between 2500 and 3000 dollars, and donations are being sought. Or if you're more of a hands on person, there will be several work sessions devoted to the car starting in February, more deatails to come.
If you'd like to help financially, please send donations to -
Sumpter Valley Railroad Restoration
P.O. Box 389
Baker City, OR 97814
And make sure to ear-mark it for caboose number 3.
Thanks in Advance, Taylor Rush Assistant Restoration Manager
