As the year draws to a close, it’s time to renew your membership with Friends of the 261. But first, we want to express our heartfelt gratitude. Your generosity has powered our efforts over the years, keeping the iconic 261 in operation and allowing us to make vital updates to our car fleet. Thank you for making it all possible!

Your support fuels our journey forward. In 2025, we’re planning even more thrilling excursions with 261, additional car charters, and exciting international tours. By renewing your membership and making an additional donation, you’ll help us continue preserving history, creating unforgettable experiences, and reaching new milestones.

Remember, your dues and donations are fully tax-deductible under federal and state laws. By acting before the end of the year, you can include your contribution on your 2024 income tax return. Renewing is easy—simply follow the link below.

Your continued support keeps our wheels turning, and we can’t wait to welcome you aboard for another incredible year. Together, let’s make 2025 a year to remember for Friends of the 261!

Thank you, and see you on our next adventure!

Our crews are gearing up for an exciting and ambitious 2025 season, packed with maintenance projects and memorable excursions. To make it all happen, we need your help. Your generosity will directly support these vital initiatives and keep our legacy alive for generations to come.

Here’s what’s ahead in 2025:

Exciting Excursions
We’re planning Windy City Excursions, steam trips on the TC&W, and potentially more. These events will bring the magic of rail travel to life for thousands of enthusiasts.

Critical Maintenance for the Fleet

• Super Dome & Wisconsin Valley 10-Year Inspection: These iconic cars will undergo Amtrak’s extensive inspections and repairs, including rolling out the trucks for thorough evaluations.
• Cedar Rapids 40-Year Truck Rebuild: At the end of 2025, this beloved car requires a complete teardown, inspection, and rebuilding of its trucks to meet Amtrak standards—a time-intensive and costly process.

Fleet Repainting
Wisconsin Valley and St. Croix Valley are due for new paint to restore their classic beauty and create a unified look for our 12 Milwaukee Road cars. After an unfortunate graffiti incident, we’re determined to restore these cars to their former glory.

Build a First-Class Car
Passenger preferences are evolving, and we’re answering the call by converting one of our hardworking cars into a luxurious First-Class lounge car, creating an elevated experience for our guests.

Enhanced Security Measures
To protect our assets, we plan to upgrade the fence, lighting, and camera systems at our Minneapolis facility. Preventing vandalism and theft ensures that every dollar you donate goes directly toward preserving and operating our fleet.

Your Support is Crucial
These projects require significant resources, and we can’t do it without you. Your tax-deductible donation will help us tackle these challenges and continue delivering the exceptional experiences that make Friends of the 261 special.

Please consider including us in your 2024 giving plans. Together, we can keep the 261 rolling strong into 2025 and beyond.

Thank you for being part of our journey—we can’t wait to see you on board next year!