What's New at the
Western Mining and Railroad Museum

New G Scale Train



On February 12, 2005 a grand opening was held for the museums new G Scale Train. The train travels the tracks and bridges that were constructed along the walls of the train room. John Benash (on left) and Pudge Nielson (on right) teamed together to create the masterpiece. The museum would like to thank John and Pudge for all the time they donated by completing this project. Come on into the museum and watch the train make its rounds.







---

Watch us grow in 2005




New Addition Updates

In June the Museum will be breaking ground for a new addition to be made on the north side of the building. The additions will include an elevator, new display rooms, a large gift shop and new archive storage. Watch this page for construction updates during the coming months.

• March 18, 2005 - Work was begun to clear the courtyard of mine equipment displays.
• April & May - Courtyard equipment was taken to the back lot for display while construction is in progress.
• May - Photos were obtained from the Utah State Historical Society of the two houses that shared the lot next to the present museum. The foundations still exist and everything found during excavation will be collected and inventoried..
• May - Preparations are being made to turn the caboose around to the edge of the lot.
• May 18, 2005 - Building plans are ready to be presented at Helper City Council Meeting.
• Saturday, June 11, 2005 - Official Groundbreaking Ceremony - Local and statewide officials and dignitaries were on hand to break ground on this important project.

Mayor Joe Bonacci (photo on left) drives the golden spike to break ground for the new Museum addition. Councilman Tony Gonzales, a retired railroad man, gives the Mayor some advice on the proper handling of a spike maul. Photo by Jennifer June Bentley Dolesandro. Museum director SueAnn Martell (photo on right) prepares to pound the golden spike to break ground for the new Museum addition during ceremonies held on Family Activity Day while Museum volunteers look on. Photo by Jennifer June Bentley Dolesandro.



• Wednesday, June 22, 2005 - D & D Equipment of Spring Glen, Utah lifts the nearly 100 year old caboose from its wheels and rails in preparation for its move to its new location. Helper City Crews and personnel from D & D Equipment look on. Photo by SueAnn Martell.


• July 2005 - The bids come in and construction is halted until more money can be raised to pay for the project. A new goal is set to start construction in January of 2006.