Locomotives on Display at the Pomona Fairplex in Pomona, California

Train enthusiasts and history buffs can see some of the locomotives that powered America's expansion at two locations in the Los Angeles area. Admission and parking are free. See The Railway and Locomotive Historical Society which is open the second Saturday and Sunday of each month at the Pomona Fairplex in Pomona off the 10 freeway. Out of town visitors can call ahead to arrange a possible tour when hours are not in normal operation.

It's an active chapter that has a restored old-fashioned depot and several locomotives on display including the Big Boy and a narrow gauge.

We toured it during the recent Los Angeles County Fair and took a tour of a restored Pullman car. The Pullman was decorated to resemble its original state in the 1920s that came complete with a kitchen, sleeping quarters and air conditioning! Plush drapes covered the windows and a guide gave a very interesting 15-20 minute talk.

Locomotives in the collection include the Union Pacific "Big Boy" 4014, the Atchison Topeka and Santa Fe 3450, Union Pacific 9000, and the Union Pacific Centennial Engine No.6915.

The "Big Boy" locomotive was donated by Union Pacific in 1962 after 18 years of service. It is the heaviest single expansion steam locomotive ever built, weighing over one million pounds in working order.

There are 11 locomotives and cars total. The display is quite impressive for a small organization and I highly recommend it.

Visit the chapter web site hosted on www.trainweb.org for regular meetings that are held and links to train information locally and around the country. During the Los Angeles County fair, the chapter is open every day.

The Pomona Fairplex is easily accessible near the 57 and 10 freeways off Fairplex Drive, one exit east of the 57 and 10 freeway Interchange.

The Railway and Locomotive Historical Society, founded in 1921, is the oldest organization in North America devoted to railroad history. The goal is promoting research and encouraging the historical safekeeping of all facets of railroading.

The Southern California chapter site was founded in 1953.

The Pomona Fairplex has events and trade shows happening throughout the year. It's located near the cities of La Verne, Pomona and San Dimas. Lodging nearby includes a Sheraton and a KOA campground. Other activities within a short distance include the Raging Waters Water Park in San Dimas, hiking in the foothills and the California Speedway and the Citizens Business Bank arena in Ontario which hosts concerts and the Ontario Reign hockey team of the ECHL.