DARLINGTON — The Lafayette County Historical and Genealogy Society (LCHGS), together with the Southwest Wisconsin Chapter of the National Railway Historical Society (both in Darlington), are seeking donations of railroad items related to local rail service. LCHGS owns and operates the Darlington Depot and Caboose on Washington Street and improved the historical displays over the last few years. With the 2023 addition of a caboose to the rails beside the depot, and its nearly complete restoration in 2024, the Depot is becoming a destination for rail enthusiasts and former railroad employees.

The railroad through Darlington was built in 1856 by the Mineral Point Railroad Company, to connect Mineral Point to Warren, where connection could be made to the Illinois Central line. In 1880, the Mineral Point company was sold to The Milwaukee Road railroad company and was operated by them until service was discontinued.

To complete the restoration of the caboose to an example of a working rail car, those working on the project are seeking donation of items related to service on the local line. That could include items from or related to the depots in Calamine, Darlington, or Gratiot.

Items wanted include conductor or engineer hats, lanterns, signal flags, paperwork, crew coffee pot, equipment, tools, signs or items of that nature. Items that would not have been found in the caboose will be displayed in the depot, such as railroad dishes and tickets.

The Depot and Caboose are a railroad museum open to the public free of charge. LCHGS is a non-profit organization. This means they don’t have the resources to purchase artifacts, but donations are tax deductible. Collectors are often reluctant to part with their treasures, but if their family doesn’t share their passion, donations to a historical museum are a good way to leave a legacy. Older collectors that may be downsizing might appreciate their donations being enjoyed by railroad fans and visitors to the museum.

LCHGS works with local historical preservation groups to support their efforts, including the Gratiot Depot Restoration. Any donations specific to the Gratiot Depot will be held for an ultimate return in order to preserve Gratiot’s history.

To make a donation, ask questions, or request a staff visit to view a collection, call the museum at 608-776-8340.