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Preservation through education

Preservation Through Education is a powerful way to connect younger generations with history, culture, and innovation. By integrating STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics) into curriculum development, students can learn not only the technical and creative aspects of railway history but also the broader lessons of preservation, sustainability, and community heritage. This initiative ensures that knowledge and appreciation of railroads are passed down through engaging, hands-on experiences while making resources widely accessible

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Preservation with hands-on experience

Volunteer's of all ages are capable of visiting and learning a new skillset. From painting, grinding, sanding, cutting or simply researching and archiving everyone gets an experience comfortable to their skillset and enjoyment. 

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Preservation Through Education

Inspiring future generations by sharing the rich history and technology of railroading through hands-on learning and community engagemen

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Preserving the Past for Tomorrows Generation

We are committed to heritage, continuity and legacy safeguarding our history, culture and traditions today so that the future generations can learn from, cherish, and build upon them. 

Curriculum Development

STEAM Integration

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Science: Explore physics of locomotion, materials science in railway construction, and environmental impacts of rail transport. Technology: Introduce students to signaling systems, digital modeling, and modern rail innovations. Engineering: Hands-on projects such as building model railways, bridge design challenges, and mechanical problem-solving.  Arts: Creative expression through railway-inspired poetry, storytelling, and visual arts projects. Mathematics: Apply geometry, measurement, and data analysis to track design, speed calculations, and scheduling.

Grade-Level Adaptation

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K–3: Storytelling, coloring books, simple experiments (e.g., wheels and axles), and poetry about trains.   Grades 4–8: Model-building, interactive field trips, math-based projects (e.g., calculating distances and speeds), and creative writing.    Grades 9–12: Engineering design challenges, digital simulations, historical research projects, and preservation-focused essays.

Hands-On Training

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Workshops: Students participate in guided sessions on railway mechanics, restoration techniques, and model construction called TRAINing Days and TRAINing Camps.   Field Experiences:  Visits to railway museums, restoration sites, and operational railroads for immersive learning.  Mentorship Programs: Pairing students with preservationists, engineers, and historians for real-world insights.  Community Projects: Student-led initiatives such as documenting local railway history or creating public exhibits.

Education Resources

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All materials will be made available through the National Railway Historical Society’s webpage, ensuring open access to educators, students, and the public. These include:​ Curriculums: Structured lesson plans aligned with national education standards.   Handouts: Worksheets, diagrams, and project guides for classroom and home learning.   Student Handbooks: Age-appropriate guides introducing railway history, preservation practices, and STEAM connections.   Poem Books: Collections of student-created poetry celebrating railroads, blending creativity with historical appreciation.

Long-Term Impact

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This program not only preserves railway heritage but also equips students with 21st-century skills. By merging history with STEAM, students gain problem-solving abilities, creativity, and a sense of civic responsibility. The open-access model ensures that the knowledge base grows continuously, fostering a national culture of preservation through education.  ​​ In summary, this initiative bridges the past and future by engaging students in meaningful, hands-on learning while keeping railway history alive and accessible for generations to come.

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