Friends of the Cumbres and Toltec

The Cumbres and Toltec railroad is a historic district owned by the States of Colorado and New Mexico. This is a beautiful and scenic narrow gauge railroad running thru incredible scenery. It is well over 100 years old.

It has a fascinating history and lots of antique equipment of historical interest. Keeping this antique railroad and equipment in operating condition requires considerable time and talent, more than can be provided by the railroad employees alone.

An organization is in place called 'The Friends of the Cumbres and Toltec Scenic Railroad'. Their mission is to 'Preserve the Narrow Gauge Past for the Future'. This group of dedicated people provide funds, material and labor to rebuild railroad cars, buildings, signage and clear the right of way. They restore equipment and arrange for it to be utilized on the railroad to recreate trains from days gone by.

Much of this restored freight equipment is used to create special freight trains for photographers to document. They have built a maintenance facility in Antonito and also have car barns to protect equipment undergoing restoration.

They have week long work sessions throughout the year and folks come from all over to provide their time and talent.

This drop bottom gondola restoration has just been completed and is ready for paint

Wood has been repaired where needed

Paint work underway

Once the cars are painted the graphics and lettering are added by volunteers

Equipment is stripped to base structure

Tank car restoration is one of the latest projects

Inside of the restoration shop

They have recreated patterns to be used for casting metal parts

Equipment out on the line ready to go

One of their latest projects

It is nice to see their work rolling along. In this case the train is filled with re-eneactors in period garb