Red River Railroad Museum
By: Jennifer Branson
The Red River Railroad Museum is an extraordinary cultural touchstone at 124 W. Main Street in Downtown Denison. This museum meticulously examines how railroads have shaped Denison, North Texas, and our nation. Through a captivating array of objects and visual materials, the museum preserves and interprets the rich history of the railroad industry. The museum’s visitors learn compelling facts about the history and technology of railroad transportation. And they can examine the pivotal role of the Missouri Kansas Texas (Katy) Railroad and its impact on regional growth.
At the museum, visitors can take a self-guided tour or a guided tour with a member of the museum’s staff. There is a video media room if visitors would like to view short films about The Crush Crash. The Crush Crash was a historical spectacle that was set up purposefully so two trains would crash head-on. Visitors can then learn about the first train to steam into Texas from the north, an event that forever changed the region, state, and nation. Visitors can see the dramatic transformation of Denison since its formation in 1872 from a fledgling town into a bustling hub of commerce and culture.
Also, guests can learn about the inventive communication methods employed by the railroad. And they can delve into the marvels of steam and diesel technology as well as relive the glamorous “golden age” of passenger train travel.
So how did this amazing culturally historical museum come into being? Imagine a group of excited railroad enthusiasts with a shared goal: to create a living tribute to transportation history. This enthusiastic group focused on the Missouri-Kansas-Texas Railroad – also known as the Katy – and its important role in shaping the Southwest.
Inspired by the Katy Railroad Historical Society (KRHS), a group of former Katy workers and railroad lovers set out to honor the transportation industry. On July 10, 1987, in Denison, Texas, they held a crucial meeting where their dream came to life. They formed a board of directors, created a constitution and bylaws, and the Red River Railroad Museum was on its way. The journey began in two stages: first as the Katy Railroad Historical Museum, and later, it became the Red River Railroad Museum, Inc., a physical symbol of their commitment.
However, every museum needs a place to call home. At first, the museum didn’t have a permanent space. From the beginning, the historic Katy Depot was seen as the perfect location. The board carefully examined the depot and decided on Suite No.120 on the main floor after discussions with the depot’s landlord and museum directors. What started as weeks quickly turned into months as volunteers worked diligently to gather artifacts and create engaging exhibits. Finally, on October 28, 1989, the museum proudly opened its doors, ready to share its treasures with everyone.
Importantly, a key figure in this ambitious project was Jim O’Brien, a veteran of the Katy Railroad who served for 49 years, including 22 years as Superintendent of Rules. Over the years, O’Brien collected many valuable artifacts, stored in his home and a rented warehouse. With the museum’s location secured, O’Brien’s collection became even more valuable. He was joined by Delbert Taylor, Don Mace, Bill Grier, Paul Neidert, and Norman Bauer, all sharing a passion for preserving Katy memorabilia.
Of course, no great project is without challenges, and funding was always a worry. The museum would not have been possible without generous donations from charitable foundations, which totaled $18,665.
From its opening until 2021, Suite 120 of the Katy Depot was the beloved home of the Red River Railroad Museum. However, in 2020, the museum faced an unexpected crisis. The COVID-19 pandemic caused a sharp drop in visitors, leading to fewer donations and lower sales in the museum store.
As a result, the museum faced the threat of closing down. It shared its situation through local media, and the community responded with incredible support. Local businesses set up donation boxes with signs asking people to “Save the Museum.” A group of eighth-graders from Scott Middle School, called the “Cocomotives,” took on the museum’s challenge as a project, selling cocoa at the Christmas Parade. With matching funds from local businesses, the Scott Scholars presented the museum with a check for over $8,000. The Katy Historical Society, a long-time supporter of the museum, also contributed $1,500. Thanks to these generous donations, the museum was able to survive and look for a new home location.
As luck would have it, a building that had housed an art gallery at 124 W. Main Street was sold. The new owners offered the museum a reduced rent until it could regain financial stability. The board welcomed and accepted the offer, and thus, the monumental task of moving thousands of artifacts and documents began. The City of Denison provided valuable help, offering manpower and equipment to assist with the move. Within weeks, the relocation was complete, and during the last weekend of April 2022, the museum reopened its doors.
The museum’s new location on Main Street has been a blessing, drawing a larger audience and allowing it to actively take part in local events and celebrations. The Red River Railroad Museum continues to fulfill its mission of educating the public about the history of the railroad industry. With its focus on the impact of the first train that came from the north into Denison as well as the influence the railroad industry had on the region, the museum is sure to captivate visitors from near and far.
Visit the Red River Railroad Museum:
https://redriverrailroadmuseum.org/
Thursday, Friday, Saturday 11am – 4pm
Free Admission – Donations Appreciated