The only good thing one can generally say about economy-class accommodations is that they save money. Otherwise, conditions are usually cramped, stuffy, poorly ventilated, and bad for one's health in the long run. We've probably all been there at one time or another.
This is our version of economy class. A tarp offers protection from rain, snow, and sun, but doesn't last very long, requires constant maintenance, and provides no opportunities for display or restoration. That's why IRM is right now planning to build another storage barn to enable us to upgrade much of our historic collection currently in economy class to covered storage. And that of course requires money, as we keep pointing out.
Your contributions can make a big difference. We urge you to donate soon, so that construction can begin. The magic code word RISWEC identifies the fund for Electric Car Department indoor storage and work space. You can send a check to this address:
Illinois Railway Museum
Box 427
Union, IL 60180
or you can donate online through our secure website at this link.
Thanks!
3 comments:
Randy is absolutely correct in his statement that indoor storage is the way to go. It is the only way to accomplish long term preservation. Any restoration work done on cars not so protected is a fleeting accomplishment and we are bound to do it over, again and again.
He is correct that there are a class of restricted funds for you to donate money on line to any department. By doing that you will guarantee maximum bang for your buck. If you donate to a specific individual car, that is good, but you run the risk that it will not accumulate to the fund level needed, before the next Barn is fully subscribed
PS. In my case I would also suggest a similar donation to RISWFC. We have several candidates of freight cars for the next barn, and many of them have funds partially along the way to success.
Bob Kutella
Thanks, Bob. I suppose we could argue about whose equipment should have the higher priority, but I think we can all agree that the main thing is to get the barn constructed, the sooner the better. We need to unite for the good of the Museum.
The bottom line is you need to ask yourself the question: "Do I want to see more equipment inside, safe and protected at IRM?" If the answer is "Yes!" then donate to either fund. If the answer is "No!" still donate.
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