Conductor operating an antique locomotive - maroon overlay

Preserving, Educating, & Celebrating

Portland's historic locomotives, railroad equipment, and artifacts.

Explore the Magic

Did you know Portland is the only U.S. city to own two operating steam locomotives? Explore and get up close to these giant marvels of the past.

Rivets on an antique train locomotive - maroon overlay

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.


Luck of the Irish!

Join us as we kick off our 2023 season in celebration of St. Patrick’s Day with a train ride! Saturday, March 18th – 1pm, 2:30pm, and 4pm The train ride goes along the Springwater Corridor next to the Willamette River, and is pulled by the vintage Polson #2 Steam Locomotive. Snacks and adult & kid-friendly …


The Oregon Rail Heritage Center is Turning 10!

Join us for fun, festivities, and family activities on Saturday, September 24th from 10:00am to 4:00pm. What to expect at the party: SP4449 will be steamed up and ready for photo opps A Lego model train layout We’re offering $10 train rides for everyone Holiday Express ticket raffle every hour Fun activities for kids Food …


Mount Emily Shay #1 Heads Back to Portland with ORHF as Its Permanent Owner and Home

By Martin E. Hansen By now many of you may have read that the Oregon Historical Society has selected Oregon Rail Heritage Foundation to be the new owner of the Mount Emily Shay #1. This concludes a nearly two-year process of deaccessioning the Shay by OHS and introduces the next chapter for this 99-year-old product …

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.