By JAMES BELL
Hays Post
ELLIS — Following major work to the Ellis Railroad Museum that revitalized the grounds — including the construction of a new home for a one-third scale replica of a GM Aerotrain — excitement is growing as the museum approaches opening day for the season.
Those improvements have been completed and there are now plans to run the train during museum hours.
“After waiting over a year for the miniature train to complete its repairs and working through some of the mechanical kinks during the test runs after the restoration process, we are excited to have the train ready to go this tourist season when the museum opens April 1,” she said.
But before that can happen a less noticeable, yet vital part of the train's operation remains in need of repair.
The tracks that carry the popular attraction have become dilapidated over years of use and will need to be repaired in order for the restored train to run its 3/4-mile route.
So community leaders are asking the public for help finding the tools needed to make the repairs.
Henrickson said tool donations can be made at two locations.
"If you have any items on the list below that you are able to part with, please drop it off at Trio Hometown Supply, 1014 Washington St., or at the Ellis Alliance Office, 820 Washington St."
Tools needed include:
1 - 4ft level
1 - Cordless drill 18-20v DeWalt or Milwaukee w/ 2-3 extra batteries and charger
2-3 - ¼” Spade wood drill bit
1 – 8-10# Sledgehammer
1 – 5-6# Handheld sledgehammer
1 – Spade blade shovel
1 – Square blade shovel
1 – Bow Rake
1 – Garden Hoe
1 – Tamper
2 – Large Pry bars(pinch point crowbar) Warwood#16070
1 – Cutter Mattock 5# Warwood# 121
1 – Chisel End Tamp Bar Warwood#1400
2- Spike Hammers 8# Warwood #32
1 – Tamping Pick Warwood#2001
4-8 – Wood Blocks (4x4-6x6 10-12” long)
1- Wheelbarrow
15-20ft log chain with hooks
Volunteers are also needed to complete the tie replacement.
For more information about the train and the Ellis Train Museum, visit their webpage, ellisrailroadmuesum.com or Facebook.