The historic Mount Emily Shay #1, a geared steam locomotive, was built in 1923 by Lima Locomotive Works in Lima, Ohio. She was one of the nearly 3,000 Shays built from the 1890s through the 1940s for logging and mining. Oregon was the nation’s leading wood producer by 1938. Shay models could operate on steep …
Preserving, Educating, & Celebrating
Portland's historic locomotives, railroad equipment, and artifacts.
Ride the Holiday Express!
The Holiday Express is running November 29 - January 4th. Join Santa Claus and his elves for a magical ride behind the 1912 Polson #2 steam locomotive. Decorated in festive cheer, the heated vintage rail cars transport you along the Willamette River in the heart of the city.
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.
In his childhood home, Pat Tracy would hear endless stories about SP 4449 when his family would sit down for Christmas dinner. Growing up in a railroading family, Pat developed an appreciation for steam engines. His father, uncle and grandfather shared countless ideas, questions, and admiration for steam locomotives. This wonder and awe would later …
In the fall of 2011, celebratory wooden train whistles rang out as construction of Oregon Rail Heritage Center began. Then in September 2012, the building we know today opened its doors to visitors for the first time. Countless volunteer hours were dedicated to this massive project. In its early days ORHF’s primary mission was to …
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.