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The City of Clifton (Texas) has recently opened a new museum in the restored Santa Fe depot building located about 2 blocks off the Santa Fe right-of-way.
The depot was constructed in 1901 and closed as a station for the AT&SF in 1983. In 1984 it was moved to its current location where it served as the headquarters for the police department until about 2010. Since then it has sat empty and deteriorating.
The Olsen family generously funded much needed repairs including a new roof, new HVAC, removal of the interior walls added by the police department, removal of the suspended ceiling, repair of broken windows with period-correct glass, new plumbing, restoration and repair of the exterior and interior wood, new paint both in and out, new period-correct lighting and new hardwood floors. A simulated red brick passenger platform along with a functioning block signal were also installed.
The museum has a multitude of exhibits including various Santa Fe dining car china patterns and other serving items and a host of other rail memorabilia including kerosene lanterns, timetables, photos, train orders and many other items such as a drumhead from the AT&SF Ranger and a late 1880's potbelly stove. The focus is on the AT&SF but with some items from other railroads that serviced Texas and nearby communities suck as the Missouri Pacific, the Katy and the Southern Pacific.
A functioning HO model railroad layout exposes a new generation of potential modelers to the hobby.
There is no admission but donations are appreciated. The museum is open on the 1st and 3rd Saturdays of each month, except for holidays, from 10AM to 2PM. The museum is also open by appointment with the City Secretary for special occasions and groups by appointment.
Contact us here if you have items you would like to donate items or assist in any fashion. Volunteers are always welcome and appreciated.
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