Mike remembers the day an adult visitor at the Center asked, “Are any of these things real?” Questions like this add to his enjoyment as a docent and PIC (Person in Charge) at ORHC. Mike appreciates the curiosity and engagement of visitors from every continent and loves trying to share something worthwhile with each one. …
Preserving, Educating, & Celebrating
Portland's historic locomotives, railroad equipment, and artifacts.
Saturday Train Rides
From April through October, we offer train rides along the east bank of the scenic Willamette River.
The Turntable Project
ORHF has acquired the last remaining historic element of the Brooklyn Roundhouse – a 102’ turntable built in 1924 by the American Bridge Company. Railroads and rail yards have depended on turntables since the early 1900’s to rotate locomotives & railcars from one track to another. Over the next year, the Foundation will be refurbishing and installing this vintage piece of rail history at our Center on Southeast Water Avenue in Portland.
Restoration work continues for the 119-year-old OR&N 197. This treasured steam locomotive arrived in Portland back in 1905 and retired after 50 years of service. FMW Solutions, in collaboration with talented volunteers, recently worked to repair the locomotive’s firebox which had corroded. The firebox is a pivotal part of a steam locomotive. They’re responsible for …
Volunteer Ron Nierenberg is quite versatile and handy to have around the Enginehouse. Not just because of his customer service talent in the gift shop or because of his skill as our Volunteer Coordinator. Who do we call when the weather looks threatening, and we need to consider a closure? You guessed it! Our resident …
With your help, ORHF has done wonders.
Your generous donations help keep the Oregon Rail Heritage Center free to everyone. We thank you sincerely and so do all the kids of all ages that love trains.