For Scott Gordon, locomotives were never just a passing childhood fascination. They were the start of a lifelong adventure on the rails. Growing up in Puyallup, WA, near the railroad tracks, Scott and his brother found themselves captivated by the loud rumble and rhythmic clatter of passing trains. Scott vividly remembers his first ride on …
The sun is shining, spring is in full bloom, and the Easter Bunny is hopping into town! Celebrate the start of the season by taking a delightful ride behind a steam locomotive. On Saturday, April 19th, join us for a 45-minute ride along the Willamette River in Portland to Oaks Park and back. The historic …
Sue Aberle is a dedicated volunteer with a heart full of family stories and a deep passion for trains. Her family is spread far and wide internationally, with three adult children, who have gifted her with six grandchildren. Her family has lived in Monroe WA, Maryland, Mississippi, Minneapolis, and even England. She’s hopeful that soon …
In Oregon, the history of railroading and growth of our Black communities are interconnected and interdependent. Oregon Rail Heritage Center recognized this when we planned one of our first exhibits upon opening the Enginehouse in 2012. In conjunction with Oregon Black Pioneers, an education-focused nonprofit, we installed their Railroading and Portland’s Black Community exhibit, which …
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 …