Newsletter: January 2006

It has been a few years since the Depot has done a newsletter, but that doesn't mean we have not been busy, quite the contrary! We have been so busy with visitors and daily tasks, that no one has found the time to note all the accomplishments and mail out the information.

Just this past year, the Depot has had approximately 2,788 visitors from 35 of our own United States, and 5 other countries. That is just from the Guest Log Book or what we could count. Many more have visited unaccounted. We enjoy sharing the Depot with all who come through the door. We have had several groups tour the Depot as well, often on days that are not open to the public, and we can thank Emma Jordan for all the hours she gives towards this effort. Emma has been a volunteer Acting Director for the past 2 years.

We have several volunteers who have come by and assisted the Depot in one way or another. Jeremy Dupree has spent countless lunch hours working and repairing the miniature model train setup in the Caboose so that we can run it for all who are excited about Railroad items. He also decorated the Caboose with lights for the Holiday Season. Joseph Creel, our resident Norfolk Southern Railroad Communications man, stops in often to visit and learned that our Player Piano needed an on-off switch. He got one, installed it, and repaired it's very loose plug at the same time. He also put a new florescent bulb in the Wedding Showcase and repaired the plug on that as well. In November, he painted the rusty rail on the railroad track side of the building, and has begun to paint the old signal mast with a brand new silver coat as well. Most recently, Joan Duncan, who lives in Rome, GA and also has a place in Mentone, dropped by and offered to help do some little projects. On Sunday, October 30th, she repainted the rusty handrail at the entrance door with a black-matt, and it now looks very nice.

We currently have just two part-time paid employees: Martha Jean Akins and Jan Hurtt. They greet visitors and give tours. Hjordis Culpepper is "loaned" by the City of Fort Payne on Wednesdays. She does the bookkeeping and works on the inventory when there are no visitors. The City of Fort Payne has also "loaned" other various city employees to help out with grounds upkeep and some electrical repair. Anyone else who helps around here are volunteers, including the 12 Member Board who keep the place going. Thanks to everyone!! Martha Stanley and Nancy Tcherneshoff have been faithful volunteers for 20 years and we want them to know how much the Depot appreciates their dedication.

Currently, our big project is the replacement of our roof. It will be 115 years old in 2006! There was a transportation grant applied for that will help cover about 80% of the work. That leaves the Depot to raise about $80,000.00. Anyone wishing to help the Depot replace the roof is welcome to make a contribution.

Our wish for 2006 is to enjoy our 20th year as a "free" Museum and to be here for many more years to follow. Drop by from time to time and visit when you can. Send your friends and family, both local and those who live away!