Make way for the Galloping Goose at the Florence Pioneer Museum!
A “Galloping Goose” you say? What’s a Goose have to do with trains? Well, did you know that was the name of a train that ran from Dolores to Ridgeway in western Colorado in 1931. In an attempt to save this narrow-gauge line, the Galloping Goose was created to make service stops along the way. Rick Coulson of Pueblo West brought his “GG” model in to show during the Model Train Open House at the Florence Pioneer Museum and Research Center, 100 E. Front Street in Florence.
Rudle Mergelman of Florence CO has loaned the museum his “G” gauge Denver and Rio Grande train and Ray Andersen of Cañon City is bringing in several trains for show.
In addition to the models, Tommy Shelnutt of Rockvale will bring in a life-size gondola car to park on the north side of the museum for the day.
All this will take place at the Museum, Saturday, December 11th, starting at 10:00 am. There will be extended hours after the regular 4:00 pm closing so many in the community can see the trains.
Operation: Lifesaver, a Colorado organization that promotes train safety, has sent coloring and activity books for the children that come to look and see. Model train enthusiasts will bring in their trains, some running, some static, to present to the community. There will be hot cider, coffee, water cookies for treats. Admission into the museum will be by donation all day.
Rudle Mergelman’s “G”gauge engine
