ELLSWORTH, Maine — The New England Steam Corp. came about $400 closer Saturday to its goal of raising $1.3 million for the restoration of the Maine Central 470 locomotive.
The all-volunteer nonprofit group joined with the Downeast Scenic Railroad to host Touch a Train at the Washington Junction from 9 a.m. to noon.
This is the second year for the event, which featured exhibits and real train cars in which participants could sit and touch. A Downeast Scenic Railroad locomotive pulled a caboose for those who wanted a ride.
Governor’s Restaurant & Bakery gave out free cookies, and Darling’s Auto Mall gave out free ice cream.
The New England Steam Corp. raised 33 percent more this year than at the same event last year, when it raised $300, said NESCO President Richard Glueck.
“We had far more people this year — many, many more children,” he said.
“The next time you see us down there, we’ll be unloading a locomotive,” said Glueck, indicating the group had raised the $80,000 necessary to move the locomotive from Waterville to the site of the June 20 event in Ellsworth, where it will be permanently housed.
“In August, we’re going to lift the tender out of there, put it on the back of a flatbed truck and bring it over here,” he said. “We’ve been working for almost four years now of meeting the goal of bringing 470 here this summer.”
Glueck estimated the group will need $1.3 million to cover both the move and the restoration, and he is seeking donations of any size. He recalled how one man donated an envelope full of coins saying that was all he had and he wanted the group to have it.
“We move at the speed of money,” he quipped, adding that the next step in the restoration will take place when enough money is in hand.
But cash isn’t all the group is looking for. Members also seek old locomotive parts and large tools.
Glueck said at the end of the steam era, people took parts off the locomotives and kept them as souvenirs or gave them away as gifts. Some just managed to end up in garages and basements where they are gathering dust.
“They can become a significant part of our restoration effort,” he said.
Glueck estimates the restored 470 could bring as many as 10,000 additional visitors annually to the area.
“In the end, [businesses] will receive the greatest benefit,” he said.
Glueck was thankful for the cooperation his group received from Downeast Scenic Railway, Governor’s and Darling’s. They helped bring awareness of the 470 restoration efforts, and that may generate more donations.
“It’s critically important that people understand we’re not begging the government for money. We’re doing this ourselves,” he said.
But for people like Deb Soderberg of Orono, who came with her three children, Bergen, 7, and twins Camden and Calie, 5, the importance of the day was much more simple.
“The kids are so excited to see the train,” she said.
For more information, visit the NESCO website at http://www.newenglandsteam.org/ or visit them on Facebook.