Fundraising Is Underway For Museum Work
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Water Valley’s rich railroad history dates back to 1853 when the railroad was chartered. Thousands of historical documents and photos located in the Casey Jones Railroad Museum trace the 129-year history. A fundraiser is underway to make upgrades at the museum.
WATER VALLEY – Anyone who has visited the Casey Jones Railroad Museum since it opened a quarter-century ago has enjoyed viewing many interesting items on display. But what you haven’t been able to view is much of the vast amount of materials gathered to document the city’s rich railroad history – material ranging from historical documents to photos and from artifacts to audio recordings stored in the Main Street museum.
“The biggest obstacle to displaying more is the amount of available space we have,” local historian Grant Thompson explained. “Technology has advanced since the railroad museum opened, and we have plans to use that to our advantage at the museum!”
An expanded and interactive digital display is in the planning phases as part of planned upgrades that will be partially funded from a $7,500 grant from the Mississippi Hills Heritage Area. The grant was awarded to the Water Valley Main Street Association for work at the museum and depot building.
Thompson is coordinating the museum upgrade and reported matching funds are needed for the grant. He also explained that work started two years ago to scan almost 8,000 historical photos and other documents stored in filing cabinets at the museum. His goal is to have digital displays that will allow hundreds of pictures and other documents to be viewed during a trip to the museum. Examples include over 9,000 depot documents that have been scanned and can be displayed digitally, in addition to the historic pictures.
“Our fund-raising phase has started. Any donations will be greatly appreciated,” Thompson shared. The donations are tax-deductible. Donations can be made through a gofundme account, (scan QR code – right) or by contacting Thompson at (662) 473-7641 or grant854@gmail.com.
“Help us preserve and display our rich railroad history of north central Mississippi. Thank you for your support and donations!” Thompson added.
