WDM train campaign picking up steam

Residents on the north end of Moose Jaw might have noticed the lack of an otherwise typical summertime sound this year - toot, toot!
Due to a damaged boiler, the Western Development Museum's Vulcan steam locomotive hasn't taken tourists around the Short Line 101 this summer, and it won't next year either unless the museum can raise $100,000 to replace the antique train's faulty component.
Kathy Fitton, museum manager, said the museum so far has only raised approximately $13,500 for the project, although the campaign to raise money for the repairs has only just begun.
"So we have a long way to go."
The Western Development Museum received its train (built in 1914) in 1978. Since then, it has been the only steam-powered train still in use in Saskatchewan, providing rides from May to September most years on the 1.6 kilometre track located on the museum grounds.
The Moose Jaw Steam and Rail Association operates the train typically, but is currently unable to do so until a replacement boiler is installed, which Fitton said is not an easy task. A company must measure the part, build it from scratch and install it, which Fitton said is a very specialized task.
"We can't just get one built at a store downtown."
Therefore, the museum is accepting donations towards the train's repair. Aside from corporate funds, the museum is seeking public support. The public fundraising campaign consists of people purchasing railroad ties located on the Short Line 101 track for $100 each.
With the purchase of a tie (that remains on the track), Fitton said a person gets a certificate of authenticity and his or her name on a little plaque that will appear next to the tie he or she purchased.
"It's kind of a fun way to help out . . . And it's a great gift to buy for that person who is impossible to shop for."
People can either arrange to donate by phone at 693-5989, by mailing in a cheque or by coming into the museum, located at 50 Diefenbaker Drive. To find out more about the museum, the fundraising campaign and steam-powered trains in general, visit www.wdm.ca.

Carter Haydu can be reached at 691-1265.