Why Colorado’s Railroad Story Is Different

Railroads mattered everywhere in America, but Steve explains that Colorado’s railroad history has a distinctive connection:
mining. Before highways and modern trucking routes, rail lines were the practical way to move heavy loads across rugged terrain.
From the San Juan Mountains to the old corridors tied to the Rio Grande Southern Railroad, trains hauled ore,
supplies, and people—linking communities that otherwise would have been isolated for much longer.

How the Museum Started

The museum itself exists because someone refused to let the past get scrapped. Steve shares the story of founder
Bob Richardson, who began saving pieces of railroading history in the 1950s as rail lines were shrinking and
older equipment was being retired. What started as preservation efforts in Alamosa eventually moved to Golden, where the
museum continues to grow into a living archive of Colorado railroading.

Today, visitors can see an impressive lineup of locomotives, rolling stock, and cabooses—each one a time capsule with its own
story, from where it ran to what it hauled to the people who worked it.

What You’ll See When You Visit

One of the best parts of the museum is how it sparks questions. As Steve walks guests through the collection, people want to
know how these machines worked, why they were designed the way they were, and what it took to operate them day after day.
You’ll move through eras—steam power, later technology, and the evolution into diesel-electric equipment—while learning how
railroads actually functioned, not just what they looked like.

The museum experience isn’t just “look at old trains.” It’s a clear picture of how Colorado moved, built, and worked.

Events That Bring the Rails to Life

The Colorado Railroad Museum also puts on major seasonal events that have become family traditions for many Front Range
residents. Steve and Rachel talk about popular highlights like the Polar Express during the holidays and
Thomas the Tank Engine events—big draws that bring visitors from Denver, Golden, and well beyond.

These aren’t just “extras”—they’re part of what keeps the museum active, visible, and connected to the community.

Preservation Takes Real Support

Keeping railroad history alive isn’t cheap or simple. Steve explains that funding and preservation efforts are ongoing, and the
museum relies on community relationships, benefactors, and support systems like cultural facility district participation.
Projects such as land acquisition and long-term preservation planning help ensure the museum stays healthy and continues to
expand its ability to protect and share this history.

Plan a Visit

If this conversation sparks your curiosity, this is an easy day trip and a solid pick for families, history buffs, and anyone
who just wants to see something uniquely Colorado. The museum’s website has the latest details on hours, tickets, and upcoming
events so you can plan your visit.

From the stories behind the equipment to the bigger picture of how Colorado developed, the Colorado Railroad Museum is the kind
of place that gives you real context for the state you live in—and it’s a fun way to spend an afternoon in Golden.