OUR MISSION
INSPIRATION IN EVERY WHEEL & BOLT TURN
Texas Railway Preservation Association is a non-profit 501 ( C ) ( 3 ) committed to demonstrating and exhibiting the significant history and sciences of railroading in Texas and the Southern Continental region. Utilizing the core values of community involvement and positive impact, family unity through project participation and education, and creating lasting memories with long-lasting opportunities.
Photo Courtesy of: Houston Chronicle (2014)
HOW WE STARTED
Originally the locomotive was donated to the city of Houston in the late 1950's and then moved from Hermann Park and placed near Minute Maid Park in downtown in the mid 2000's. In 1989 the Texas Railroad Preservation Association was formed to take care of 982's upkeep. At the end of 2020, we had the opportunity to obtain full ownership of the locomotive when the Houston Astros Baseball Club purchased the land the engine resided on. The Astros decided the engine needed to be moved. In Early 2021 the newly renamed Texas Railway Preservation Association was granted donation of the engine and was then moved to its current storage location to be restored and put back on the high iron.
Every railroad and locomotive has a story, and that story begins with its people. A restoration of this scale requires passion, time and energy from a group of deeply committed people. Our team members below have been pivotal in the upkeep , care and restoration of the 982. Please take some time to get to know our team and why they are each involved! We all look forward to meeting you at future events.