Mid-Continent Railway Museum: A Living History of Railroading in the Midwest
Located in North Freedom, Wisconsin, the Mid Continent Railway Museum is an outdoor, living museum dedicated to preserving the rich history of railroading in the Midwest. The museum offers train rides and exhibits on historic trains and rail equipment, recreating the small town and short line way of life during the “Golden Age of Railroading.”
What is Mid-Continent?
The Mid-Continent Railway Historical Society, also known as the Mid Continent Railway Museum, was established to recreate the era when the railroad station was the hub of social and communication activities in small towns. Operating since 1963 in North Freedom, the museum features operating trains, educational exhibits, and displays of restored rolling stock, offering visitors an immersive experience of railroading history.
Vision and Mission
Vision Statement: The Mid Continent Railway Museum envisions itself as a place where visitors can learn about the historical significance of railroad stations in small communities. These stations were vital for transportation, information, and the shipment of goods, connecting towns to the broader world.
Mission Statement: The museum’s mission is to educate the public by accurately recreating the Golden Years of Railroads, from the Civil War era to post-World War II, using vintage equipment. The museum aims to collect, preserve, restore, and operate artifacts from this period to provide visitors with a firsthand experience of historical railroading.
Mid-Continent History
Founded in 1959 as the Railway Historical Society of Milwaukee, the Mid Continent Railway Museum began its mission to perpetuate the heritage of steam railroads through authentic operation and display. Initially based in Hillsboro, Wisconsin, the society moved to North Freedom in 1963 after purchasing 4.2 miles of track from the Chicago & North Western Railroad. This move allowed the society to offer steam train rides and expand its collection of historic rolling stock.
Exhibits and Attractions
The Mid Continent Railway Museum boasts a vast collection of restored rail equipment, including steam and diesel locomotives, passenger cars, freight cars, and cabooses. The museum’s exhibits cover various aspects of railroading history, providing a comprehensive look at the development of rail transport in the upper Midwest.
Train Rides: One of the main attractions is the train rides, which offer visitors a chance to experience rail travel as it was in the early 20th century. These rides are available throughout the operating season, providing a unique and nostalgic experience.
Historic Displays: The Mid Continent Railway Museum features well-organized displays of railroad artifacts, including tools, uniforms, and communication equipment. These exhibits help illustrate the day-to-day operations and technological advancements in railroading.
Educational Programs: The Mid Continent Railway Museum offers educational programs and events, including guided tours, workshops, and special events like railfan weekends and themed train rides. These programs are designed to engage visitors of all ages and foster a deeper understanding of railroading history.
Community and Volunteer Involvement
The Mid Continent Railway Museum operates as a non-profit, membership-driven organization. Its members, who come from various backgrounds and professions, play a crucial role in the museum’s operations and growth. Volunteers work as brakemen, locomotive engineers, steamfitters, carpenters, researchers, and more, contributing their time and skills to preserve and promote the museum’s mission.
Membership Benefits: Membership in the Mid-Continent Railway Historical Society offers several benefits, including publications, discounts at the museum store, and free train rides. More importantly, members support the preservation and educational efforts of the museum, helping to maintain one of the most authentic railroading institutions in the country.
Future Plans
Looking ahead, the Mid Continent Railway Museum plans to continue its efforts to preserve and interpret the history of Midwest railroading. The museum aims to expand its collection, enhance its exhibits, and develop new educational programs to reach a broader audience. With over 500 members from 38 states and the United Kingdom, the museum is well-positioned to carry forward its mission of historical preservation and education.
Visiting Information
The Mid Continent Railway Museum is located in North Freedom, Wisconsin, near popular tourist destinations like Baraboo and the Wisconsin Dells. The museum is open to the public during the warmer months, with specific hours and train schedules available on their website.
Contact Information: For more information or to plan your visit, contact the Mid-Continent Railway Museum at 608-522-4261 or visit their website at
www.midcontinent.org.
Conclusion
The Mid Continent Railway Museum in North Freedom, Wisconsin, is a living history museum that offers a fascinating glimpse into the Golden Age of Railroading. Through its collection of historic trains, engaging exhibits, and educational programs, the museum provides an enriching experience for visitors of all ages. Whether you are a rail enthusiast, a history buff, or simply looking for a unique outing, the Mid-Continent Railway Museum offers a memorable journey into the past.
For additional details and membership information, visit the museum’s official website and join the community dedicated to preserving the legacy of Midwest railroading.