Trains & Tractors Event spotlights restoration work done by RRHMA

Railroading Heritage of Midwest America (RRHMA) in Silvis has a day full of locomotive and tractor fun planned at the Trains & Tractors Event on Saturday, October 19th from 9 a.m. – 3 p.m.

Visitors can enjoy train rides behind a historic steam locomotive, tractor rides, food trucks, face painters, and vendors. A model train layout on display will thrill model train enthusiasts. Guests can see a boiler restoration demonstration and go on guided tours of the RRHMA shop where the iconic Challenger #3985 and #5511 are being rebuilt, along with other pieces of railroad history.

Tickets for the steam locomotive rides are available at a discounted rate if bought before the event. Ticket prices increase on the event day. Shop tours showing a behind-the-scenes look into the revitalization of railroad history are also available at a discount when bought in advance.

For those who want a unique train experience, RRHMA has an insider dinner on Friday, October 18th. The dinner includes the chance to meet the crew working on the steam engines, some of the finest barbecue the Quad Cities has to offer and music. There are limited tickets available for the dinner, which includes food, beverages and a complimentary one-year membership to RRHMA.

Onsite event parking is available. The venue is not yet fully accessible due to the age of this historic equipment, so some guests may have difficulties.

RRHMA is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit educational organization that promotes public understanding of the history of railroading in the Midwest. RRHMA does this by preserving, restoring, operating and interpreting historic locomotives and rail cars. It was founded in 1991and has become a leader in the world of historic rail preservation through restoration and excursion efforts.

Click here for more on the Railroading Heritage of Midwest America and to buy tickets.

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