Protection vs Preservation vs Purpose

Yes, from a preservation point of view, all historic railroad equipment needs to protected from the elements. But how far do you go? Is a simple roof over the display sufficient? Should you provide walls to present wind-driven moisture from causing damage (we found we needed a north wall in Antonito)? Should there be doors? Should they be locked? Should the key be thrown away providing the ultimate level of preservation? You need to balance the level of protection against the value of being on display.

I got to inspect 0577 when my son was working on its restoration several years ago. It was in much better shape than 0579 was when we first considered restoring it. 0579 had some attention to siding and roof in the 40 years it bounced around the valley. Not as good as 0578, but that car had constant attention at CRRM over the years. 0580 looks good in Del Norte at the Visitor Center, and 0576 in Salida might get some attention in the coming years, thanks to some dedicated local fans. All provide different levels of purpose to the public. The more visible an exhibit is the more value it provides. If 0577 was in a building at Cimmaron, would the public care?

As long as its caretakers maintain the exhibit and ensure its display on the bridge is not causing irrecoverable damage, then great! Just get Sean's crew to keep the equipment looking good and everybody wins. Although 0577 seems to be totally intact, it never needs to be on the rails again, so what better purpose can it serve?

Bill Kepner