JAMESTOWN, Calif. – Do you enjoy sharing history? Enjoy meeting with people from near and far? Want to become part of an operating train crew? California State Parks, Railtown 1897 State Historic Park (SHP) and the California State Railroad Museum Foundation are now accepting applications for adults interested in volunteering to help communicate the fascinating railroading history of the “Movie Railroad” in the beautiful Sierra foothills. Volunteer positions include tour guides, train car hosts, greeters, ticket agents, stationmasters, operating train crew, and more. Interested volunteers are encouraged to attend a Volunteer Open House on Saturday, January 18, 2020 from 10 a.m. to noon in the on-site Carriage Room. Volunteer applications must be submitted by January 31 and a volunteer training program will begin in on February 1. Community members are encouraged to join this worthwhile program that offers an opportunity to support a local state historic park while learning more about California’s rich history, meeting new people and developing friendships with those who share similar interests.
No previous experience with trains or public service is required, and recruitment is currently underway. Interested volunteers able to speak multiple languages are also highly encouraged to apply. At the Open House, prospective volunteers will have the opportunity to meet one-on-one with Park staff and talk with current volunteers to learn about the various positions that are available. Informal tours of the operation will be conducted, and complimentary snacks will be served.
Railtown 1897 SHP is known for its century-old steam maintenance shops and train rides, including popular rides behind the famous “Movie Star Locomotive” Sierra No. 3®. In addition to weekend excursion steam trains (April through October), Railtown 1897 SHP offers daily tours, roving interpreters, and many special events.
Benefits for volunteering at Railtown 1897 SHP include membership in the California State Railroad Museum Foundation, free admission to and train rides at Railtown 1897 SHP and at the California State Railroad Museum located in Old Sacramento State Historic Park, a variety of social activities, interesting training opportunities and guest speakers, discounts at the Depot Store, and participation in an annual volunteer recognition dinner. Interested volunteers can download a volunteer application at www.railtown1897.org or call 209-984-4408 for more information.
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California State Parks provides for the health, inspiration and education of the people of California by helping to preserve the state’s extraordinary biological diversity, protecting its most valued natural and cultural resources, and creating opportunities for high-quality outdoor recreation. Learn more at www.parks.ca.gov.
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About the California State Railroad Museum Foundation
The mission of the California State Railroad Museum Foundation (CSRMF) is to generate revenue and awareness on behalf of its destinations, while supporting the preservation, interpretation and promotion of our railroad heritage. The Foundation provides funding for ongoing support of numerous programs, both at the museum's Old Sacramento location and at the historic park in Jamestown, Calif. For more information, please visit www.californiarailroad.museum.