The Sparks Heritage Museum will be opening the Sparks Executive Car, otherwise known as the “Houston Car,” to the public from 4 to 7 p.m. on Thursday.
Originally built in 1911 as a Pullman passenger car, it was converted to a business car in 1928. Harrah’s restored and dedicated the car as part of the country’s bicentennial celebrations in 1976. The executive car has not been open to the public for many years as a leak during a big rain and wind storm damaged the interior.
“We have cleaned up the inside of the train and want to give the public the opportunity to see what a grand old car we are lucky enough to have here in Sparks,” said museum manager Anthea Humphreys. “In order for us to restore the Old Library building or the train we need public support.”
The Sparks Heritage Museum is expecting to kick off several restoration projects this coming year designed not only to preserve the region’s heritage but also to entice tourism and benefit the citizens on many levels.
Lillard Railroad Park on Victorian Avenue and Pyramid Way was opened in 1981 as a result of the citizens of Sparks joining together to fund and develop it. In addition to the train display, the park is also home to the Chinese Memorial, which contains the last surviving portion of the Transcontinental Railroad in Sparks.
Tours of the train on Thursday will be free to the public, though donations are strongly encouraged. The ever-popular conductor John Hartman and long-time museum historian Les Ede will be on hand to answer questions and guide visitors.
“We have a treasure sitting here in our midst,” retired judge Larma Volk said. “It’s time we start using it.”
Thursday’s event is part of the Sparks Museum’s tribute to trains, which includes a special toy train model railroad exhibit inside the museum. The museum and Glendale Schoolhouse will also be open until 7 p.m. on Thursday so that after a visit to the executive car visitors can continue their explorations of Sparks history. As part of the special exhibit, visitors can try their hand at driving a model train in Tinkey’s hand on switching station.
The Sparks Heritage Museum located on the corner of Victorian and Pyramid strives to preserve the historical and cultural heritage of Sparks for the enjoyment of present and future generations.
“We are a museum for the people by the people and we welcome residents new and old to get involved,” Humphreys said.
Until further funding becomes available, it is not expected that the Sparks Executive Car will be open on a regular basis. Don’t miss the opportunity to check it out this Thursday from 4 to 7 p.m. at Lillard Park in Victorian Square. Tours of the train are free. For more details, contact Humphreys at the Sparks Heritage Museum at 355-1144.
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