Sedona, AZ: The Verde Canyon Railroad is proud to announce the expansion and renovation of the John Bell Train and Mining Museum. Since the new train depot opened in 1997, history has been displayed inside the depot. Now, the museum has its own home, trackside, just outside the depot doors. A fully renovated 1940’s Boxcar that was used to haul ammunition for the U.S. Army has been set up complete with track and wheel bed for effect.
“We have a few artifacts from the original museum that have survived over a century,” said general manager Robin Brean. “On display are actual photos of the delivery of each of our rare FP 7 engines, thanks to Allan Miller who went to Alaska three times to capture this journey. As a railroad enthusiast he felt this was history in the making and should be preserved for future generations” added Brean.
The museum is dedicated to John Bell, who was a long-time Clarkdale resident and great amateur historian long before coming to the Verde Canyon Railroad. Bell accumulated, preserved and documented photos that would be lost today if not for his efforts. Continuing Bell’s legacy, the railroad is committed to keeping history alive with a historian to speak with at the museum. There is plenty of time prior to train departure to visit the museum as well as after returning to the depot.
The current rail route has been in place since 1911, and is a bit of “living history” that folks may still experience. The new museum has opened in time to celebrate the 100th anniversary of the rail line, the founding of Clarkdale, and the state of Arizona itself, as well as the 20th anniversary of the present Verde Canyon Railroad passenger excursion. The Verde Canyon Railroad understands the importance of preserving and sharing the history of mining and railroading in the Verde Valley, for all who love this unique history of Arizona.
Outdoor displays of rolling stock, locomotives and general railroad operating equipment offer opportunities for visitors to see, up close, railroad equipment normally viewed from a distance. Additional outdoor displays include maintenance of way, signaling and track equipment displayed in traditional context or interpretive manner.
The museum is open daily from 10:30 a.m., until train departure at 1 p.m. Staff on site are more than happy to show you around should you come to visit any time between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. It's not the destination, it's the journey!
To book rides on the Verde Valley Railroad, visit www.verdecanyonrr.com or call 1-800-320-0718.
Article courtesy of Teresa Propeck.
Posted June 18, 2008.
