Friends Work Sessions 
The Friends conduct work sessions in Chama, NM; Antonito, CO; and our site in Colorado Springs, CO. The organization and planning of our work sessions is a complex and time consuming process and has been described in an article, "Volunteering on a Grande Scale," reprinted from the Spring 1999 Railway Museum Quarterly, the official publication of the Association of Railway Museums.
2012 WORK SESSION SCHEDULE Work sessions A-F will take place at sites along the Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad. Registration materials will be posted in February 2012.
For a look at Work Session Photos, please visit our Gallery! |
The most important function of the Friends involves the volunteer work done each season on the structures and rolling stock owned by the railroad. Maintenance of a railroad such as this is a full time job, to say the least and the operator of the C&TS, has its hands full just keeping the equipment needed for its passenger operations in good condition. As a result, some of the historic structures and freight equipment, not needed for daily operation of the line, do not get as much attention as they require. The Friends help fill this gap by providing volunteer labor to keep these historic items in good repair, thus enhancing the experience for all visitors of the railroad. Also, since we’re a non-profit organization, expenses for registration, travel, food and lodging are tax deductible contributions to the Friends of the Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad, Inc.