Our museum already offers trains rides over two rail lines, cab rides, and an engineer program.

How you spend the money you raise will have some impact on how much money you can raise in the future, especially if you solicit outright donations from individuals or businesses. Some years ago I was asked to contribute to a particular project at a well known rail museum. I did, as did several others. The project never got started; I have not contributed since.

Size up every visitor and give personal attention to those who show real interest in your activities and potentially have the means to help, financially or otherwise. I stopped by another well known rail museum this summer and came away deeply impressed with the quality of their work, the focus of the collection, and the extra effort the members made that day to make me feel welcome. I wrote them a check when I got home; I wouldn't hesitate to do so again.

The more quality you put into your museum and the more it is viewed as an asset by your local community, the deeper you can reach into the community for support.

Alan Maples

Dinner, even in a stationary dining car can raise funds, but can be tricky to execute. The meal can be prepared on board, or catered in. But either way, check with your local or county health dept for regs and inspections. At IRM we need to have a current inspection to even serve catered food, and certain systems in the car needed to be in working order, or updated. These included, I think, the availability of hot water for washing and sanitizing.

Bob Kutella

OK. You have gotten some great ideas on this site but here is the most important to insure you get repeat donations from businesse in particular. Let your customers/patrons know who made the donations! Put a little sign that says something like: This car was moved here throught the kind donations of XYZ Company. Or; This building was refurbished with donations from the ABC Corporation. When they see their name in a prominent location, they are more likely to pony up another donation if they are getting something in return.

Later!
Mr. Ed