The California State Railroad Museum and Foundation are thrilled to announce a monumental undertaking—the restoration of the historic Atchison, Topeka and Santa Fe 1010, a remarkable steam locomotive that has been a silent witness to the pages of railroad history. This ambitious project represents the most extensive steam restoration effort undertaken by the Museum since its opening in 1981.
The initial phase of fundraising for this project has been generously kickstarted by three remarkable families who share our passion for preserving the past and ensuring its place in our future. Jeff and Marsha Gibeling, Art and Linda Grix, and Craig Hoefer of the Hoefer Family Foundation have come forward with a combined donation of $300,000, representing approximately half of the estimated funds required to breathe life back into the 1010.
We invite you to become part of this inspiring endeavor, where your contribution will have twice the impact, thanks to our matching fund initiative. Your support not only preserves a piece of history but also contributes to maintaining the California State Railroad Museum's status as the premier railroad museum in the country.
Your contribution, no matter the size, will play a vital role in reviving the AT&SF 1010. Consider donating or learn more from our On Track article on the 1010.
The AT&SF 1010 built in 1901 by the Baldwin Locomotive Works of Philadelphia has a rich history. It played a pivotal role as one of the 19 locomotives used for the Los Angeles-to-Chicago Scott Special, where it handled a three-car train from Needles, California, to Seligman, Arizona, under the skilled guidance of engineer Fred Jackson. An astonishing feat at the time, the journey took a mere 44 hours and 54 minutes.
Afterwards, the 1010 quietly faded into obscurity, relegated to local freight service towards the end of its illustrious career. It is believed to have been steamed up for the last time in 1955 for the Scott Special's 50th anniversary, making it the sole surviving locomotive from that historic event.
In May 1981, the 1010 made a triumphant return, participating in the California State Railroad Museum's opening Railfair. It took part in the pageant "Song of the Iron Horse," demonstrating its power by moving in and out of the Museum roundhouse on compressed-air power. In October 1984, the Santa Fe railroad officially gifted the 1010 to the Museum, allowing it to remain a part of our history.
We invite you to be a part of this incredible journey. Your contribution, no matter the size, will play a vital role in reviving the AT&SF 1010, ensuring that it once again roars to life, captivating the imaginations of generations to come. With our matching fund initiative, your generosity will have double the impact.
Remember that your gift will be matched dollar for dollar up to $300,000, thanks to the unwavering support of Jeff and Marsha Gibeling, Art and Linda Grix, and Craig Hoefer of the Hoefer Family Foundation.
Thank you for being a part of this historic restoration. Together, we can keep the legacy of the AT&SF 1010 alive, preserving the magic of steam power for generations to come. Join us today and help us write the next chapter in the remarkable history of the California State Railroad Museum.
Excess funds will be used to fund general restorations at the Museum.
Your contribution, no matter the size, will play a vital role in reviving the AT&SF 1010. Consider donating or learn more from our On Track article on the 1010.
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