History

 

The original owner of the property where the Klamath & Western Railroad now operates

was owned by Ed St. John. He started the dream of building a major model railroad in

Chiloquin in 19??. Some local residents helped him build a portion of the railroad.

A neighbor of Ed’s, just over a small hill, was very helpful in the early years, so when

someone wanted to know where he was, his wife would often reply he’s “over the hill”.

That phrase soon became the name of the original club in Chiloquin, aptly called The

Over The Hill Live Steamers.

This original group also started the tradition of running trains on summer morning on

Sundays giving rides to the public. Most, if not all, of the early members of this group

have passed away. Over the years, long time members Bill Shepperd, Boyd Butler, and

several others have continued the tradition.

About 19?? Train Mountain own\er Quinten Breen, acquired the land and track from Ed

St. John. Train Mountain then negotiated a mutually beneficial lease arrangement with

the club. About 2012 Railroad Institute (RRI), now Train Mountain Institute (TMI)

acquired the Train Mountain assets from Quentin Breen when he passed away,

Through the cooperation of TMI, the K&W still enjoys trackage rights for their original

portion of the much larger Train Mountain Railroad. TMI focuses on the scientific and

educational aspects of model railroading.

In addition to continuing the trackage rights Train Mountain Institute also donated two of

the current club locomotives and the K&W riding cars. Funds for day to day operation

are provided for by the donations made by the public on the summer run days. The

Klamath & Western Railroad, Inc. is a registered 501 (C) 3 public benefit non-profit

organization. Contributions to the organization may be tax deductible depending on the

project or fund. Your financial and volunteer support is welcomed and appreciated. If

you, your company or your foundation is interested in supporting our efforts, please

contact us at your convenience. The K&W recently purchased a new locomotive

through the generous donations of visitors.

Membership in the club has no requirements other than a love of trains. Most club

members own no but instead operate K&W equipment after qualification. Their training

is provided by experienced membership along with a written test on rules of operation.

Perhaps you’re wondering what happened to our tunnel. It was becoming unsafe so, in

railroad jargon, we day lighted the tunnel for everyone’s safety.

Our members give many volunteer hours to maintain our great facility that is known as

the Klamath & Western Railroad. The K&W has no paid employees. We look forward

to your joining us for a great model railroad experience.

Donations are always appreciated and will be put to good use!