The restoration and overhaul for operation of ex-Alaska Railroad steam locomotive #557 was begun in August, 2012, and steam test are projected for late 2023. $1.5 million in monetary grants and individual contribution, $950,000 in in-kind and 150,000 volunteer hours. Approximately $600,000 remains to be raised to complete the restoration. There are several ways you can express your support. It is important and appreciated!
Engine 557
PO Box 875360
Wasilla, Alaska 99687-5360
- You can affect how Fred Meyer distributes their charitable contributions! They allow you to link purchases to a charity of your choice which determines the level of their charitable contributions. The more that is purchased by customers linked to the charity, the higher the contribution to the charity. Although only a few cents are designated for each purchase, a large number of 557's supporters linking their purchases to the Engine 557 Restoration Company will ensure a steady income stream. There is no cost to you and no information about you or your purchases is provided. Go to the Fred Meyer Community Rewards program page for more information.
- Purchase No. 557 merchandise. All the profit from
557 merchandise purchased in the Alaska Railroad Gift Shop is donated
to the restoration of Engine 557. Available now are 557
pins, 557
locomotive pins, patches,
and baseball
hats.
- Purchase copies of "Once a Hobo - The Autobiography of Monte Holm" and "Ol' 556 - Alaska's Mighty Steam Engine." Both books are closely associated with Engine 557.
- "Extra 557
Returning prints." The Engine 557 Restoration Company
commissioned well-known artist J. Craig Thorpe to produce a painting
portraying 557 as an Extra rounding the bend at M.P 68, while pulling
an excursion train in 1950. Signed, numbered, limited edition prints
and unnumbered giclee prints on canvas are available. All profits
go towards 557’s restoration.
- Support our in-kind sponsors. Over 60 businesses have provided donated goods and services valued in excess of $700,000. Without their support, the final cost for the restoration would be nearly doubled. See the list of in-kind sponsors and give them your support.
- Thanks to the foundations, firms, and individuals which have provided major support. Not all of them want to be recognized, but here is a list of major donors who will allow us to thank them publicly.
- Volunteer. Our volunteers are an integral part of the project. To date, they have donated over 100,000 hours of their time. They do the dirty, hard work of overhauling a steam locomotive week after week with the only reward being self-satisfaction and a meal of “hobo stew.”
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