No. 557 Info: And now, a word to our sponsors. Why "to our sponsors?" That's because it is directed at you, the financial supporters and sponsors who have underwritten the overhaul and restoration of Engine 557.

On Giving Tuesday, December 3, we will be officially kicking off our annual fund raising campaign. Starting then you can expect a flurry of posts highlighting 12 years of progress towards returning 557 to operation, particularly the substantial progress of 2024, along with numerous requests for your financial support. If you have given in the past, you can also expect a letter asking for your continuing support.

We have secured pledges for $20,000 in matching contributions, a one-for-one dollar match for any contribution made, starting today. Please consider contributing, contributing early, and having your contribution doubled.

Contact information to contribute via credit card, debit card, Paypal, or check click here. You are also welcome to pay a visit to the 557 Engine House, take a tour, and leave a generous contribution.

A bonus! If you contribute right away we won't send you a pesky fund raising letter. As a double win, an early contribution will also allow an extra 73 cents to go towards restoration funding.

The Engine 557 Restoration Company does not receive or ask for any government funding. Its restoration has totally been funded by the contributions of individuals, businesses, and non-profit foundations with a little bit of help from the sale of hats, pins, and prints. All labor for our fund raising is done by volunteers, there is no percentage taken off the top for professional fund raisers or for paid staff.

And now, back to our regular programming. - 11/21/24

Modeling: I apologize in advance if these words offend anyone, but I am thankful I didn't work an outdoor job. Now that winter's icy breath is blasting me in the face as I walk my dog, I can't imagine working out in this environment 8 to 10 hours a day. Therefore, I am thrilled to be working indoors on my model railroad layout. My hat is off to those who work outdoors year round in the rain, snow, wind and blistering heat.

This week on my HO Alaska Railroad layout we finished the culvert work while Rick tweaked the Royal Celebrity Ultradome. We also have a lot of fun just running trains. What could be better than that! - 11/21/24