By Jake Halverson, Site Supervisor
As the 2026 season comes to a close at End-O-Line Railroad Park & Museum, there’s plenty to celebrate! From historic building improvements to collections work and a growing e-bike program, it’s been a busy year at the park.
One of the biggest projects this year has been the continued work on the General Store and Grist Mill following their relocation. Staff have begun cleaning, organizing and evaluating collections that had been packed away for years, including items hurriedly stored during past flooding.
Anna Johnston has been carefully cleaning and assessing these historic objects to prepare them for display. The goal is to have both buildings ready to welcome visitors next season. Renovations to the railroad turntable and pit are also on the horizon.
Nearly every structure on the museum grounds received some attention this summer, thanks in large part to Dennis Stubbs. From painting and carpentry to electrical and plumbing work, his efforts have helped preserve the buildings and improve the visitor experience.
Anna Johnston also helped with guided tours, the gift shop and other museum activities, while Nancy Moberg kept things running smoothly at the ticket counter, gift shop and parking area.
The museum’s e-bike rentals continued to gain momentum in 2026. With 31 individual rentals, visitors rode a combined 388.6 miles throughout the summer!
The museum hopes to at least double those numbers next season.
Although final attendance figures were not yet available when this update was written, visitor numbers appeared to be comparable to last year.
With refreshed exhibits, improvements throughout the grounds and more projects ahead, there’s plenty to look forward to when End-O-Line reopens for the 2027 season.
Thank you to everyone who visited, volunteered and supported the museum this year. We look forward to welcoming you back!
Originally shared in the 2026 fall update from End-O-Line Railroad Park & Museum.
A vintage jar of marjoram is among the many historic items being cleaned and evaluated for display in the General Store. Marjoram, an herb similar to oregano, became popular in the United States following World War II.