The Linden Depot Museum, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit railroad museum located along U.S. 231 in Linden, has launched a $30,000 GoFundMe fundraiser to support Project 497, a cosmetic restoration of its historic Nickel Plate Road bay window caboose No. 497.
The caboose, originally donated by the Norfolk & Western Railway, has been on outdoor display for several years and has experienced significant deterioration due to prolonged exposure to the elements. Project 497 is aimed at restoring the caboose’s exterior, returning it to a condition suitable for public display and long-term preservation.
Because of the scale of the restoration work and the museum’s limited volunteer resources, funds raised through the campaign will be used to hire professional restoration services. Planned work includes surface preparation and a complete exterior repaint. Restoration efforts are expected to begin in the spring, with completion anticipated by the end of 2026.
Museum officials note that any funds raised beyond the needs of Project 497 will be directed toward future preservation initiatives. These include repairs to the historic depot building and stabilization of other outdoor railroad exhibits on the museum grounds.
The Linden Depot Museum expressed its appreciation to community members and supporters who help preserve this important piece of local and railroad history for future generations.
For more information or to donate, visit the Linden Depot Museum’s GoFundMe page or contact museum president Gary Vierk at 765-427-3630. Donations may also be mailed to Linden Depot Museum, Project 497, P.O. Box 154, Linden, IN 47955.