What is the Badger Steam and Gas Engine Club Railroad Project?

In the State of Wisconsin, as in many states industrializing in the 1860s-1890s, there were once “little” trains dotting the countryside for the purpose of hauling raw materials and passengers from backwoods areas to larger rail centers.  These small trains operated on a narrow-gauge track and were vital to many communities for the transport of goods, and for the export of products to industrial locations.  One such line of this type was the Chicago & North Western Railway’s “Dinky” Line which operated from Fennimore to Woodman, WI.  As part of our commitment to educate and inform the general public and our show visitors about our agricultural and industrial heritage, the Badger Steam & Gas Engine Club has formed a Railroad Committee to pursue and oversee the construction of a steam-powered 3′ narrow gauge railroad on our show grounds.

Our objective is to replicate the Fennimore-Woodman line using equipment and buildings typical to the 1860-1890 era. At present time, a route has been planned and mapped out, and as well we have made plans for a depot.  We are moving forward in the pursuit of funding, track, and related equipment necessary for the building and operation of this exhibit.  We are working closely with local railroad groups and with professional railroad builders and track workers in order that this project is built correctly and set up in such a way as to ensure the maximum longevity of the materials and equipment we will be using.

Any questions or comments may be sent to the Railroad Committee.

Address:

P. O. Box 329,
Baraboo, WI 53913

Email: Railroad@badgersteamandgas.com