I just spent part of the day at the museum and really enjoyed the wide range of rolling stock on display. This is a place run totally by volunteers [no gov. funds or involvement] so it’s very much hands on and a great place to bring your grandkids! If your in So. CA you should check it out. It’s FREE, unless you want to take a ride on some of the rolling stock on weekends. There web site , www.oerm.org
I remember visiting the Orange Empire Railway Museum about 40 years ago. It was impressive then, but obviously has come a long way since.
Thanks for the heads-up. It’s only about a four hour drive from my humble abode - almost next door as driving distances go in the desert Southwest.
Chuck
What really impressed me during my visit to the Orange Empire Railway Museum is the size of those Pacific Electric Owl cars. Compared to what photographic images have suggested, they’re a whole lot bigger in person!
This forum contributor made a very brief visit to the museum May 13, 2009 on a personal research matter pertaining to the route of the original California Southern to San Diego laid in the 1880’s. That California Southern line, shown in the below southward (westbound) looking photo, was absorbed into the Santa Fe Railway.
It is a great place to visit. A couple of times a year the place has a big shindig, and a whole bunch of equipment is operated, from steam engines to trolley cars. At those times throngs of people flock to the site.
The entrance fee is modest and well worth it. During the week, I believe there is no entrance fee. Obviously, there is no equipment operated at those free times, but a visit can make for a wonderful nostalgic trip.
Week ends are free and there is equipment running but you do need to buy a ticket if you want to ride. You have complete freedom to roam the grounds and see all the rolling stock and there are a number you can just walk through at no cost. The best thing about the place to me is that you feel like your in a railroad yard and have access to all the car barns…no pretense!