'Save Our Caboose' Campaign Raises $32K To Repair Historic Railcar In Mahwah

MAHWAH, NJ — Mahwah is home to one of the most valuable pieces of America's railroad history — the Erie Railroad caboose 04940, a rear end of a freight spur that was commissioned in 1929, the local museum on Franklin Turnpike said.

Significantly damaged by exposure to the weather over the years, the caboose is in need of repairs to siding and windows, and a shelter to protect it from rain or snow; therefore, the museum, along with the Mahwah Historic Preservation Commission, launched a "Save Our Caboose" campaign to fund the repairs and a pavilion.

As of Thursday, the campaign has raised $32,500 toward a $50,000 goal amount that will be matched by the DeSilva family and the Liberty Family of Dealerships, the commission said in a Facebook post. Both the museum and commission are asking for more help to reach that goal.

Built by railcar manufacturer Magor Car Company, the 21-foot long caboose is known for its signature cupola, a small windowed projection on the roof, and served the Erie and Erie Lackawanna Railways from 1929 through 1968. It now serves as a teaching tool for museum visitors, the museum said in a YouTube video.

"(The caboose) is a historical adventure that will thrill and educate both young and old alike," the museum said.

A founding member of the Mahwah Historical Society, John Dater, obtained the caboose for the Old Station Museum just off the turnpike, and the 1871 rail station complex, the museum said, has become the "de facto town center." In fact, the station even featured on the town seal.

Although some interior renovations have been completed, there is still work to be done, the museum said.

"We need your help to save our caboose for future generations," the museum added. "We need to come together and take pride in our town and preserve this very special part of Mahwah's landscape."