Restoration Program Opens Registration for 2012 Sessions

[Tim Tennant]

The Friends of the Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad is touted around the country as having one of the best volunteer restoration programs in the nation for both rolling stock and structures. In 2012 the Friends’ are offering both weeklong and 3-day work sessions to accommodate the membership’s continuing involvement in the restoration program. Starting in Antonito with Sessions A & B in May the emphasis will be on three projects: lettering of the Antonito display train; assembly of steel roof trusses and the erection of the trusses on a Pole Barn structure for the triple-track Car Storage Shelter. There are several other choices for projects in both Antonito and Chama that will be going on during these sessions. If this peaks your interest it’s time for you to take a look at the 2012 projects and work schedule found on the Friends web site. Not only will you find four more weeklong work sessions that could use your involvement but a total of over 50 projects during multiple sessions this season. Keep in mind you don’t need to be a skilled craftsman as there is always a Team Leader that can help you along. Come and join a dedicated group of people who spend their time and money for a very worthwhile cause, a cause all Friends share. Keeping the historic Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad going is a momentous task. Come and be a part of several award winning restorations in progress, such as the Railroad Post Office and Derrick OP that will be completed this coming year. You will find yourself involved with a very elite and enthusiastic group of people, and guess what…you will have fun too. To be a part of this historical restoration work become a Friends’ member by contacting their office in Albuquerque 505-880-1311 or go on the web at http://www.cumbrestoltec.org . I hope to see you soon working on the railroad.

John Engs is Co-Chair of the Friends Projects Committee and a Board Member. During his thirteen year involvement he has participated in several notable restoration projects for the organization.