Founded in 1948 in Worthington, Ohio, The Ohio Railway Museum is one of the oldest and most pioneering railroad museums in the United States. Our journey began with the acquisition of the Ohio Public Service Interurban Car #21, a treasured artifact proudly listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Our mission is to not only preserve the rich history of railroads but also to educate the public on their profound impact on the development of Ohio and the nation. Through engaging displays, interactive demonstrations, and historical artifacts, we aim to bring the fascinating history of railroading to life. The museum operates on the historic Columbus, Delaware, and Marion (CD&M) railbed, a line established in 1901 to provide essential passenger and freight services across 60 miles, connecting Columbus, Worthington, Delaware, and Marion. Though the CD&M ceased operations in 1933 after filing for bankruptcy, its legacy is preserved and celebrated at our museum. Our collection boasts a range of historic pieces, including the last CD&M interurban parlor car #501, affectionately known as "The Red Bird."
Visitors to the museum can delve into the evolution of rail travel through our comprehensive exhibits, featuring both electric traction and steam equipment. We offer scenic rides on vintage streetcars and Pullman passenger cars, providing a dynamic way to experience a bygone era of railroading. We invite visitors to join us on this historical journey, exploring a century of transportation technology and innovation.
Our mission is simple yet profound: to educate and preserve.
Education is at the heart of everything we do. As custodians of a unique and historic rail collection, we hold a deep responsibility to both the past and the future to preserve the knowledge of this industry. Fueled by a passion for trains and their cultural significance, we diligently research, organize, display, and share the stories that convey the rich history of railroads and their impact on society.
Preservation, our most resource-intensive objective, ensures that this history remains accessible and intact for generations to come. Countless hours are devoted to maintaining and expanding our collection, as well as the infrastructure that supports it. Our dedicated staff works tirelessly to keep the exhibits safe, operational, and enduring. None of this would be possible without the vital support of our visitors. Every ticket sold, piece of merchandise purchased, and donation given directly sustains our efforts to keep rail history alive and thriving.
Together, through education and preservation, we ensure that the legacy of the railroads lives on.
At The Ohio Railway Museum, we take pride in being an all-volunteer run nonprofit organization. Our dedicated team is composed of passionate individuals committed to preserving and sharing the rich history of railroading. Their tireless efforts ensure that the museum offers engaging and educational experiences that delight visitors of all ages. Our volunteers, equipped with a wealth of knowledge and a deep-seated love for railway history, make every visit to the museum informative and memorable. We welcome new volunteers who share our passion and enthusiasm for historical preservation, and who wish to contribute to maintaining this vital link to the past.