Putnam Museum's new exhibits focuses on trains, railroads

The Putnam Museum and Science Center is opening an exhibit on railroads today, June 22, that will run through Oct. 13.

All Aboard: Our Quad City Locomotive Legacy brings an expansive look into railways while centering the conversation around the unique history of the Quad-Cities.

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"The exhibit tells the story of the important impacts that railroads have had on QC culture and stability," said Chris Kastell, the Putnam's Curator of History and Anthropology. "From inviting immigration to building the first U.S. railroad bridge across the Mississippi River, railroads have brought diversity and vitality to our area."

On display are Buddy L trains, Rock Island Line objects, a depot set with historic clothing, and a multitude of artifacts. In partnership with the Heartland Model Railway Club, there is a large model train display featuring many regional names, like Davenport, Rock Island, Barstow, and Burlington. Stories from local rail workers will be accessible. In addition to the curatorial staff's panels, there are loaned panels titled "Wheels of War & Move Over Sir! Women Working on the Railroad," produced by the Union Pacific Railroad Museum. Interactives include railroad bridge building, a hand cart station, and a "Hobo" Code guessing game.

The Quad City Locomotive Legacy was made possible through donations from the Regional Development Authority, Arconic and Iowa Economic Development.

Additionally, the documentary "Train Time" will play in the GIANT Screen Theater for the duration of All Aboard, alongside the Putnam's usual movie roster. The film follows a BNSF engine across sweeping American landscapes while touching on all aspects of rail careers, including engineers, conductors, logistic specialists and service workers.