VOLUNTEER

The Iron Horse Society is a dedicated non-profit organization driven entirely by passionate volunteers from diverse backgrounds. Our active volunteers range from those who are stepping onto a train for the first time to seasoned professionals in the railroading industry. There are numerous ways to get involved, from event planning to locomotive maintenance, and our experienced team members are eager to provide on-the-job training to new volunteers in any area they wish to explore.

While preserving historic railroad equipment at the Steamtown National Historic Site is a primary focus, we also aim to keep alive the traditional skills, tools, and trades of the railroad industry. Since our inception, volunteers have gained hands-on experience in laying new railroad tracks using vintage 1940s-era tools, been trained on classic air brake systems, and even rebuilt mid-20th-century refrigeration units. Many volunteers have also learned invaluable skills like carpentry, flooring, electrical work, and metalworking—skills that have proven beneficial in their everyday lives outside of the railyard.

The Iron Horse Society maintains a comprehensive set of safety regulations tailored to protect our volunteers while working with and around railroad equipment. These guidelines are adapted from contemporary railroad safety standards to suit our preservation and restoration activities. For insurance purposes, all volunteers working on or near railroad equipment at the Steamtown site must be members of the Iron Horse Society, except during special events where non-member participants sign a waiver of liability.

Volunteer work sessions are typically held on fair-weather weekends, and you can often find our team working on various projects during regular open days or special events. Most of our volunteers juggle full-time jobs and dedicate their free time to making a positive impact while enjoying the camaraderie and friendships formed during work sessions.

If you are interested in volunteering with the Iron Horse Society, please contact us at info@theironhorsesociety.org. Let us know your background and interests, and we’ll connect you with the right project coordinator. Together, we can ensure a rewarding experience that keeps you engaged and excited to return week after week.

Join us in preserving the legacy of railroading while learning new skills and building lasting relationships. Your contribution makes a significant difference.