Age Of Steam Roundhouse Auction: What You Need To Know
Can the echoes of a bygone era still captivate our imagination? The answer lies within the meticulously preserved Age of Steam Roundhouse Museum in Sugarcreek, Ohio, a place where the roar of locomotives and the stories of railway pioneers continue to resonate, offering a unique journey into the heart of American history.
The Age of Steam Roundhouse Museum stands as a testament to the enduring allure of steam power. It is not merely a collection of artifacts but a vibrant, breathing repository of railroad history. The museum proudly announced its operational status for tours and events throughout the summer and fall seasons. Visitors have flocked from across the nation to witness firsthand the realization of Jerry Jacobsons dream, a vision brought to life within the walls of this extraordinary museum. The success of these tours is particularly poignant given the challenging circumstances faced by the institution and its staff. Despite these hurdles, the museum has admirably ensured the safety and well-being of its employees, volunteers, and guests throughout the tour season.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Museum Name | Age of Steam Roundhouse Museum |
| Location | Sugarcreek, Ohio, United States |
| Type of Museum | Railway Museum |
| Primary Focus | Steam and diesel locomotives, passenger cars, and vintage railroad equipment |
| Key Features | Roundhouse housing, diverse collection of locomotives, active tour program, and historical preservation efforts. |
| Current Status | Open for tours and events |
| Recent Activities | Auction of EMD SW1200 switchers, acquisition of a Reading Railroad Camelback locomotive. |
| Educational Impact | Provides insight into American and Canadian rail history, engineering, and the industrial revolution. |
| Website Link | Age of Steam Roundhouse Museum Official Website |
The museum's dedication to preservation is evident in its meticulous care of the locomotives and rolling stock. One notable example of this commitment to preservation and maintenance is evident in the recent handling of locomotive #41. In a proactive measure to ensure its long-term integrity, the locomotive, now a vital part of the museum's collection, was carefully transported. This process involved a delicate operation requiring the use of two cranes to load the unit onto a specialized lowboy trailer. The trailer, designed with a multitude of wheels for optimal load distribution, facilitated a short yet crucial journey via highway to a railroad.
Beyond preservation, the Age of Steam Roundhouse Museum has been actively involved in transactions involving its collection. Two EMD SW1200 switchers, once operational on the Grand River Railway, were put up for auction. This auction, which concluded on April 1st, presented an opportunity for collectors and railway enthusiasts to acquire a piece of railway history. The reserve price for each unit was set at $90,000. The proceeds from the sale were designated for the continued care and development of the museum's extensive collection, ensuring its longevity and its continued ability to educate and inspire future generations.
Another significant event in the museum's recent history was the acquisition of a rare Reading Railroad "Camelback" steam locomotive, #1187, constructed in 1903. This locomotive, a unique and historically significant piece of railway equipment, was carefully unloaded on August 3rd at the Sugarcreek location. The addition of #1187 to the collection represents a remarkable achievement for the museum, underscoring its commitment to preserving and showcasing the diverse history of steam locomotion. The ongoing expansion of its collection serves as a further indication of its commitment to protecting and displaying a wide array of railroad artifacts.
The Age of Steam Roundhouse Museum's commitment to safeguarding its treasures is evident in the care and attention it gives to protecting these valuable objects from the elements. One instance of this dedication occurred in 2016 with the movement of locomotive no. 1278 inside the roundhouse, ensuring its preservation from environmental factors. This act of stewardship demonstrates an ongoing commitment to caring for and conserving the pieces of history within the museum.
The Age of Steam Roundhouse Museum, under the direction of Jerry Jacobson, the man whose dream had brought it into existence, has also seen locomotives that had been previously sold. A perfect example is the locomotive 612, in 2010, which was sold to Robert Franzen. Then, in 2015, the museum acquired it again and had it transported to Sugarcreek, Ohio. This kind of acquisition underscores the dynamic and ever-evolving nature of the collection and highlights the passion the museum leadership has for the historical artifacts they have in their care.
The story of the Age of Steam Roundhouse Museum is one of perseverance, passion, and the unwavering dedication of those who believe in preserving the past. The museum, with its meticulously preserved collection, stands as a vibrant reminder of the vital role railroads have played in shaping American and Canadian history. As visitors continue to explore the exhibits, they become part of a legacy of stories that continues to unfold. By hosting a wide array of tours and events, the museum provides an immersive educational experience, allowing visitors to connect with the steam-powered era and appreciate the hard work and determination of the railroad pioneers. The Age of Steam Roundhouse Museum not only preserves the physical artifacts of the past but also keeps the spirit of those times alive, allowing it to teach future generations the importance of learning about history.
