Investing in the Future of the 261: Capital Projects for 2026
For more than three decades, Friends of the 261 has preserved and operated historic railroad equipment so future generations can experience the sights, sounds, and stories of mainline railroading. Keeping this fleet safe, reliable, and presentable requires continual reinvestment—and in 2026, several critical capital projects must be completed to ensure continued operations.
To meet this challenge, Friends of the 261 is prioritizing three major projects and seeking your support to help bring them to completion.
Project 1: New Batteries and Watering System for Locomotive 32A
Goal: $12,000
Diesel locomotive 32A is a vital part of 261 operations. Built by EMD as an E9 for the Milwaukee Road, 32A is regularly used on excursions and plays a critical role during events such as the North Pole Express. It is also used to pull trains in reverse, eliminating the need to turn Milwaukee Road steam locomotive No. 261—an operational advantage that saves time and reduces wear.
However, the locomotive’s current battery system is increasingly unreliable. The batteries are marginal and must be charged for multiple days before use, limiting flexibility and creating uncertainty when short-notice operations arise. Compounding the issue, the original E-unit battery racks make routine battery watering difficult and time-consuming.
This project will replace the existing batteries with a new set supplied by ILS and add a modern watering system specifically designed for these installations. Volunteers will complete the installation, keeping costs down while ensuring quality work.
The result:
Increased reliability and availability of 32A
Reduced maintenance time and effort
Greater operational flexibility for excursions and special events
Project 2: New Windows for the Wenonah and Nokomis Coaches
Goal: $50,000
Passenger comfort and equipment integrity are essential to the 261 experience, and nowhere is that more evident than in the windows of our historic coaches.
Both the Wenonah and Nokomis currently suffer from significant window issues. In the Wenonah, most interior panes were removed by a previous owner, leaving single-pane windows. The few remaining original interior panes are fogged, reducing visibility and appearance. Several washroom privacy windows are failing, and some windows are cracked, compromising weather resistance.
The Nokomis presents a different challenge. A prior modification installed narrower windows, making its windows incompatible with those on Wenonah. This lack of interchangeability complicates maintenance and increases costs.
This project will install new, modern double-pane windows in both cars. The Nokomis will be restored to its original window dimensions, allowing the two cars to share interchangeable window units.
The result:
Improved passenger comfort in all weather conditions
Clearer views and a more polished interior appearance
Restored weather-tight integrity at the window belt
Simplified maintenance and long-term cost savings
Project 3: Repainting the Lounge Car St. Croix Valley
Goal: $20,000
The St. Croix Valley is one of the most visible cars in the 261 fleet. As a first-class lounge car, it appears on most excursions and plays a key role in the overall presentation of the train.
Currently, the car is wrapped in blue and gray vinyl, while the original Milwaukee Road maroon and orange paint remains underneath. Over time, the wrap has begun to crack and peel, creating an increasingly poor appearance and reducing the protection of the car body.
This project will remove the failing wrap and underlying paint, address any necessary bodywork, and fully repaint the car in authentic Milwaukee Road colors. Beyond protecting the car, this effort will bring the 261 excursion fleet closer to a consistent Milwaukee Road–painted consist.
The result:
A restored, historically accurate appearance
Improved long-term protection of the car body
Enhanced marketing appeal to railfans and photographers
A more cohesive and visually striking excursion train
How You Can Help
To complete these essential projects in 2026, Friends of the 261 must raise $82,000:
$12,000 – Locomotive 32A batteries and watering system
$50,000 – New windows for Wenonah and Nokomis
$20,000 – Paint and body work for St. Croix Valley
Every contribution—large or small—directly supports the preservation, reliability, and presentation of this historic fleet. Your generosity ensures that the 261 continues to operate safely, delight passengers, and represent the Milwaukee Road with pride for generations to come.