Cincinnati Railroad Club

115 years ahead of its time, or what are those rails during under Bluffton's Main Street?
2025-11-06 19:30 - 21:00 (America/Detroit) | Cincinnati Museum Center, 1301 Western Ave, Cincinnati, OH, 45203, United States
The Cincinnati Railroad Club & Fred Steiner Presents – 115 years ahead of its time, or what are those rails during under Bluffton’s Main Street?
PowerPoint presentation with maps, photos, timetables, and interesting stories, focusing on three railroads intersecting in Bluffton, Ohio, located in Allen County, between Lima and Findlay. The story reveals how railroads helped a small village grow during the Oil Boom of the 1890s-1900s and expand it connections in the United States.
The three rail lines are:
• Lake Erie and Western, later Nickel Plate Road, today Norfolk Southern
• Northern Ohio Railroad, eventually Akron, Canton and Youngstown Railroad
• Western Ohio (interurban)
Railroad Program includes:
• Paper handouts listing historical data involving railroads in Bluffton
About the speaker:
Railroads became a fourth grade obsession with me, when my teacher handed me a list of all the Class I railroads in the U.S. Soon, when other friends were memorizing sports statistics and collecting baseball cards I was writing to railroads, collecting timetables. As the editor of my hometown newspaper and later an on-line news website that I created I researched news articles about these railroads and interviewed men who worked on them. I’ve authored five history books on Bluffton, Ohio, and have included several railroad references in them.
All Cincinnati Railroad Club meetings are held in the Newsreel Theater at Union Terminal/Cincinnati Museum Center and are open to the public at no charge. We’ll begin the evening at 7:30 pm with brief club updates & announcements, followed by our featured program presentation at 8:00 pm. Parking will be validated for attendees parking in the Union Terminal/Cincinnati Museum Center parking lots.
Directions to Newsreel Theater at Union Terminal:
Enter through Union Terminal’s main entrance into the rotunda, turn left toward the Cincinnati History Museum, and the Newsreel Theater doors will be on your left between the escalator and the History Museum. Just look for our club banner outside the door. Again, the meeting begins at 7:30 pm with our featured program starting at 8:00 pm

Saturday, October 25, 2025 – Club Room Open House & Book Sale
2025-10-25 16:30 - 21:30 (America/Detroit) | Cincinnati Museum Center, 1301 Western Ave, Cincinnati, OH, 45203, United States
Explore the Cincinnati Railroad Club & Historic Tower A!
Date: Saturday, October 25, 2025 Time: 5:00 PM – 9:30 PM Location: Cincinnati Railroad Club Room, 3rd Floor, Cincinnati Museum Center (Union Terminal)
Can’t make our regular Thursday meetings? Don’t let a busy schedule keep you from experiencing the heart of Cincinnati’s railroad history!
Join us for a special Saturday evening open house. We’re opening our doors for you to explore our unique club room and, most excitingly, to visit the legendary Tower A.
What to Expect

Browse Our Collection: Discover our vast collection of railroad books, with many available for purchase. It’s the perfect place to expand your library or find a unique gift.
Relax in the Club Room: Unwind in our welcoming club room, a true haven for rail enthusiasts.
Visit Historic Tower A: From the club room, you’ll head up a short flight of stairs to the legendary Tower A, which will be open exclusively for this event.
See Stunning Views: Prepare to be captivated by breathtaking, panoramic views of the bustling Cincinnati railroad yards. It’s an experience that truly brings the history of railroading to life.

How to Find Us
Finding the Cincinnati Railroad Club room inside the Cincinnati Museum Center (Union Terminal) is easy:

Enter the Cincinnati Museum Center and head straight across the main concourse.
Look for the restrooms on your left.
Directly opposite the restrooms, on your right, you will spot a small alcove with an elevator.
Take this elevator up to the 3rd floor.
When the elevator doors open, our club room will be immediately on your right.

We look forward to welcoming you!

Queens of the Seven Hills: Cincinnati’s Inclined Railways with John Stewart
2025-10-02 19:30 - 21:30 (America/Detroit) | Cincinnati Museum Center, 1301 Western Ave, Cincinnati, OH, 45203, United States
Queens of the Seven Hills: Cincinnati’s Inclined Railways with John Stewart
Join us for a fascinating look at Cincinnati’s historic inclined railways with presenter John Stewart. More than just a quirky part of the city’s past, these inclines were essential pathways that powered the growth of our urban landscape.
On Thursday, October 2, 2025, at 7:30 PM, we’ll start with a brief member meeting, followed by the presentation at 8:00 PM. John Stewart will take you on a journey through the “ups and downs” of the inclines, sharing incredible stories, including a rare film of them in action, a bizarre “whale of a tale,” and the unbelievable story of a man saved by manure.
This event offers a unique glimpse into a bygone era of Cincinnati history. Don’t miss this one-of-a-kind presentation!
About the presenter:
John Stewart’s interest in trains began when his dad took him to watch Chessie engines flitter about the New Miami ARMCO Coke plant at night. Stewart has developed an enjoyment of pre-1920s railroad history.
YouTube Live Stream: Coming soon!
All Cincinnati Railroad Club meetings are held in the Newsreel Theater at Union Terminal/Cincinnati Museum Center and are open to the public at no charge. We’ll begin the evening at 7:30 pm with brief club updates & announcements, followed by our featured program presentation at 8:00 pm. Parking will be validated for attendees parking in the Union Terminal/Cincinnati Museum Center parking lots.
Directions to Newsreel Theater at Union Terminal:
Enter through Union Terminal’s main entrance into the rotunda, turn left toward the Cincinnati History Museum, and the Newsreel Theater doors will be on your left between the escalator and the History Museum. Again, the meeting begins at 7:30 pm with our featured program will start at 8:00 pm

CMC 1940s Day | Club Open House
2025-09-06 10:00 - 17:00 (America/New_York) | Cincinnati Museum Center, 1301 Western Ave, Cincinnati, OH, 45203, United States
Experience a journey back in time at 1940s Day, where you can fully immerse yourself in the captivating atmosphere of the 1940s. Enjoy the lively sounds of big band music, admire the gleaming chrome of classic cars, and appreciate the iconic fashion of pin curls and Zoot suits. This event serves as a colorful homage to a pivotal decade, highlighting the distinctive music, fashion, automobiles, and the remarkable people who shaped this era.
During your visit, be sure to stop by the Cincinnati Railroad Club booth, where we will proudly display the fascinating railroad history of the Cincinnati area. Our knowledgeable volunteers will be on hand to provide insights about the legendary Union Terminal, a key landmark in our region. You can also learn about the second-oldest railroad club in Ohio and discover various ways you can get involved with this vibrant organization. We invite both members and guests to come and explore our club room located on Three North; from our windows, you can see the bustling railroad yard located just behind the terminal.

Jonathan Higgins Presents | Cincinnati Railroad Club Meeting | July 2025
2025-09-04 19:30 - 21:00 (America/New_York) | Cincinnati Museum Center, 1301 Western Ave, Cincinnati, OH, 45203, United States
Program:
The Cincinnati Railroad Club invites you to an evening with its president, Jonathan Higgins. Known to many as the host of Train Aficionado and Scanner Guys, Jonathan will take you on a journey through his 2024 Illinois road trip.

His presentation, “The Ultimate Illinois Railfan Adventure,” will feature highlights from the renowned Rochelle Rail Park, the impressive collection at the Illinois Railway Museum (IRM), and a look at the famous Big Boy 4014.
About Jonathan Higgins
Jonathan Higgins is a prominent figure in the railfanning community, recognized as the host and blogger of TrainAficionado.com and the President of the Cincinnati Railroad Club. His deep knowledge and passion for Railfanning are at the heart of his work. As the founder of The Scanner Guys, Jonathan utilizes his technical expertise to provide custom programming for scanners, including those used by railroads, police, fire, and EMS. This dual focus on railroading and scanning technology allows him to bridge the gap between hobbyists and the intricate world of railroad operations.

This free presentation is open to everyone and will be held in the Newsreel Theater at Union Terminal/Cincinnati Museum Center. The meeting begins at 7:30 p.m., with the featured program starting at 8:00 p.m. Parking is validated for all attendees.

Join the Club at SUMMERAIL 2025 | Marion, Ohio
2025-08-09 10:00 - 22:00 (America/New_York) | SUMMERAIL, 276 W Center St, Marion, OH, 43302, United States
Come and be a part of the Cincinnati Railroad Club as we embark on an exciting journey to SUMMERAIL! This event features an incredible Railroad Show and Sale, running from 10 AM to 5 PM, where you can explore a variety of railroad-related merchandise and exhibits. From 1 PM to 10 PM, immerse yourself in a captivating multimedia exhibition that showcases presentations from some of the nation’s leading railroad photographers and videographers. Don’t forget to visit our booth at this year’s SUMMERAIL event; we would love to meet you and share our passion for railroads. For more information, please download the 2025 SUMMERAIL Flyer here.

Frank Keller - North to Alaska | August 2025 Meeting
2025-08-07 19:30 - 21:00 (America/Detroit) | Cincinnati Museum Center, 1301 Western Ave, Cincinnati, OH, 45203, United States
About the presentation
Join photographer Frank Keller for an unforgettable presentation chronicling his 15-year photo journey through Alaska. This long-term project captures the state’s breathtaking and untamed beauty. You’ll see stunning photographs of trains in spectacular landscapes, highlighting their role as a vital lifeline in remote territories. This is a program you don’t want to miss!
About the Presenter: Frank Keller
Frank Keller’s passion for photography began in high school, sparked by a chance encounter with a copy of Trains magazine. While he had always been drawn to the powerful imagery of locomotives, it wasn’t until college that he found a community of fellow enthusiasts. Over the years, his fascination evolved, and photography became his primary focus and the most powerful way for him to share his unique perspective with the world.
Meeting info
All Cincinnati Railroad Club meetings are held in the Newsreel Theater at Union Terminal/Cincinnati Museum Center and are open to the public at no charge. We’ll begin the evening at 7:30 pm with brief club updates & announcements, followed by our featured program presentation at 8:00 pm. Parking will be validated for attendees parking in the Union Terminal/Cincinnati Museum Center parking lots.
Directions to Newsreel Theater at Union Terminal:
Enter through Union Terminal’s main entrance into the rotunda, turn left toward the Cincinnati History Museum, and the Newsreel Theater doors will be on your left between the escalator and the History Museum. Again, the meeting begins at 7:30 pm, with our featured program will start at 8:00 pm

Saturday, July 26, 2025 - Railfan Meetup with Train Aficionado | Camden, Ohio
2025-07-26 12:30 - 18:00 (America/New_York) | Camden, Ohio, 90 Railroad Ave, Camden, OH, United States
Join Train Aficionado and the Cincinnati Railroad Club for an exciting railfan meetup this Saturday, July 26, 2025, along the busy Norfolk Southern New Castle District in scenic Camden, Ohio!
This is your chance to connect with fellow train enthusiasts, enjoy delicious food, and witness the thrilling action of passing trains up close.
Here’s What We Have Planned:
12:30 PM: Lunch at Power House Pizza
We’ll kick things off with a fantastic lunch at Power House Pizza, fueling up for an afternoon of railroading excitement.
~1:30 PM: Trackside Railfanning
After lunch, we’ll head to the nearby tracks. Settle in, relax, and enjoy a steady parade of trains thundering by. Don’t forget to bring your comfy camp chair and some cold beverages to stay cool!
Evening: Sweet Treat at Depot Dairy Bar & Restaurant
As the day winds down, we’ll stroll over to Camden’s Depot Dairy Bar & Restaurant for some delightful ice cream – the perfect sweet ending to a day filled with roaring locomotives and camaraderie.
Don’t miss out on this incredible opportunity to experience the thrill of the rails and share your passion with other railfans. We can’t wait to see you there!

Saturday, July 19, 2025 - Club Room Open House & Book Sale
2025-07-19 16:30 - 21:30 (America/Detroit) | Cincinnati Museum Center, 1301 Western Ave, Cincinnati, OH, 45203, United States
Can’t Make Thursday Evenings? No Problem!
Don’t let a busy schedule keep you from experiencing the heart of Cincinnati’s railroad history! If our Thursday evening meetings don’t quite align with your availability, we’ve got an incredible opportunity for you to seize the chance to explore our club room and immerse yourself in our vast collection of books!

Discovering a wide variety of railroad books available for purchase, perfect for expanding your collection or finding that unique gift.
Unwinding in our welcoming club room, a true haven for rail enthusiasts.
Then, making your way up a short flight of stairs to the legendary Tower A!
Once you arrive at Tower A, prepare to be captivated by the stunning, panoramic views of the bustling Cincinnati railroad yards! It’s an experience that truly brings the history of railroading to life.

Tower A will be open for your exclusive enjoyment from 5:00 PM to 9:30 PM.
Finding the Cincinnati Railroad Club Room at Union Terminal
When you arrive at the Cincinnati Museum Center (Union Terminal), finding the Cincinnati Railroad Club room is easy!
Simply head straight across the concourse. As you walk, keep an eye out for the restrooms on your left. Directly across from them, on your right, you’ll spot a small alcove with an elevator.
Take this elevator up to the third floor. Once the doors open, our club room will be right there on your right-hand side.
We look forward to seeing you!

Cincinnati Union Terminal Tower A: A Look Inside the Control Center
Tower A was more than just a building; it was the brain of Cincinnati Union Terminal’s intricate rail yard. Its primary function was to control the movement of trains, overseeing the daily journey of up to 216 trains from mainlines to platforms. Much like a modern airport control tower, it ensured the smooth and efficient flow of rail traffic.
Key features and functions of Tower A included:
Electro-pneumatic interlocking machine: This impressive machine, located on the top floor, utilized compressed air and electric signals to operate track switches. It had 231 levers and controlled a complex network of switches, signals, and derails, ensuring that trains moved safely and efficiently through the massive rail yard, which encompassed 94 miles of track across 287 acres.
Centralized control: Before Union Terminal’s construction, Cincinnati was served by multiple, disparate train stations. The “union concept” brought together 13 different rail lines of seven different systems into one consolidated facility. Tower A was vital to managing this complex integration, allowing for a seamless flow of passengers and freight.
Architectural integration: While the primary focus of Tower A was functionality, it was also an integral part of the overall Art Deco design of the terminal. The terminal itself was designed by the New York firm of Alfred Fellheimer and Steward Wagner, with significant aesthetic influence from French-born Philadelphia architect Paul Cret. The design, evolving even during construction, became a testament to the Machine Age, blending engineering efficiency with artistic beauty.
Historical significance: Tower A played a critical role during the terminal’s peak operations, especially during World War II when it handled an average of 30,000 passengers daily.
Post-railroad era: After passenger rail service ceased in 1972 (though it resumed in 1991 with Amtrak’s Cardinal route), the impressive interlocking machine in Tower A was sadly dismantled and relocated, marking the end of an era for its original function.
Tower A Connection to the Cincinnati Railroad Club
Restoration and Stewardship of Tower A: A significant milestone for the Cincinnati Railroad Club was their involvement in the restoration of Tower A. In 1989, club members took out a loan of over $100,000 to fund the restoration of Tower A, coinciding with the opening of the new Cincinnati Museum Center. Following the restoration, the Cincinnati Railroad Club made Tower A its home, offering public tours at no cost for over 25 years. This act demonstrated their dedication to preserving railroad heritage and sharing it with the community.
Continued Presence: While their main meeting room and library were moved to a space just below Tower A in 2022, the CRRC continues to meet regularly at Cincinnati Union Terminal, often in the historic Newsreel Theater. Their members, who include retired railroad employees, photographers, historians, and enthusiasts, share a passion for full-scale railroading and are dedicated to being good stewards of their historical collections.

Don Toon Presents - That 70's Show! - Cincinnati Railroad Club Meeting | July 2025
2025-07-10 19:30 - 21:00 (America/Detroit) | Cincinnati Museum Center, 1301 Western Ave, Cincinnati, OH, 45203, United States
Don Toon’s presentation will feature highlights from his 1970s railfan travels, featuring many fallen flags, including Penn Central, GM&O, L&N, Milwaukee Road, and ICG.
About the presenter
I began photographing trains in 1971, went to IU from 1975 to 1980, and worked for 2 years as the photo editor of the IU yearbook, as well as a staff photographer for the IU newspaper and the IU Foundation. I volunteered for more than 10 years at the Indiana Transportation Museum and was the Operations Manager for the first Fairtrain in 1983. I have created 3 Summerail shows and recently retired from the construction supply sales field after 45 years.

All Cincinnati Railroad Club meetings are held in the Newsreel Theater at Union Terminal/Cincinnati Museum Center and are open to the public at no charge. We’ll begin the evening at 7:30 pm with brief club updates & announcements, followed by our featured program presentation at 8:00 pm. Parking will be validated for attendees parking in the Union Terminal/Cincinnati Museum Center parking lots.
Directions to the Newsreel Theater at Union Terminal:
Enter through Union Terminal’s main entrance into the rotunda, turn left toward the Cincinnati History Museum, and the Newsreel Theater doors will be on your left between the escalator and the History Museum. Again, the meeting begins at 7:30 pm, with our featured program starting at 8:00 pm

Trevor Rost Presents Into the Light | June 2025
2025-06-05 19:30 - 21:00 (America/Detroit) | Cincinnati Museum Center, 1301 Western Ave, Cincinnati, OH, 45203, United States
About the presentation
For years, I learned to put the light on my back to ensure the best possible shot. This still holds for many situations, but through exploration and experimentation, I found when to have success doing the exact opposite.

About the presenter
I have been a train lover my whole life. My first Christmas gift was a train table, and a wooden toy of the Thomas & Friends character also named Trevor. This led me to watch the Thomas & Friends show and eventually gain an interest in real life railroading. I started taking photos of trains in 2017 when Denver was visited by the Cheyenne Frontier Days Train, hauled by Union Pacific 844. Since then I have traveled across multiple states shooting trains, with my main interest being steam engines.
All Cincinnati Railroad Club meetings are held in the Newsreel Theater at Union Terminal/Cincinnati Museum Center and are open to the public at no charge. We’ll begin the evening at 7:30 pm with brief club updates & announcements, followed by our featured program presentation at 8:00 pm. Parking will be validated for attendees parking in the Union Terminal/Cincinnati Museum Center parking lots.
Directions to Newsreel Theater at Union Terminal:
Enter through Union Terminal’s main entrance into the rotunda, turn left toward the Cincinnati History Museum, and the Newsreel Theater doors will be on your left between the escalator and the History Museum. Again, the meeting begins at 7:30 pm with our featured program will start at 8:00 pm

Jim Krause -The Wreck of the Cincinnati, Hamilton & Dayton Railway | May 2025
2025-05-01 19:30 - 21:00 (America/Detroit) | Cincinnati Museum Center, 1301 Western Ave, Cincinnati, OH, 45203, United States
Jim Krause will be telling the story of the Cincinnati, Hamilton & Dayton Railroad which was acquired by the Baltimore & Ohio Railroad in 1909 from J.P. Morgan. The road became the Toledo & Cincinnati Division of the B&O in 1917. His recently completed book, available here at the Cincinnati Railroad Club or online at the club bookstore, is a comprehensive work that covers the CH&D’s development and operation from 1851 to 1917. The CH&D was a prime factor in the growth of western Ohio’s manufacturing centers and population. Originally built by men of vision to spur the development of the Great Miami River Valley, the railroad became the pawn of robber-barons and Wall Street bankers in 1882. Subsequently, a revolving door of rapacious owners and management would destroy the railroad from within by fraud and deceit.
Our presenter, Jim Krause, is a native of Hamilton and a Miami University graduate. He writes an occasional history column for the Hamilton Journal-News.
All Cincinnati Railroad Club meetings are held in the Newsreel Theater at Union Terminal/Cincinnati Museum Center and are open to the public at no charge. We’ll begin the evening at 7:30 pm with brief club updates & announcements, followed by our featured program presentation at 8:00 pm. Parking will be validated for attendees parking in the Union Terminal/Cincinnati Museum Center parking lots.
Directions to Newsreel Theater at Union Terminal:
Enter through Union Terminal’s main entrance into the rotunda, turn left toward the Cincinnati History Museum, and the Newsreel Theater doors will be on your left between the escalator and the History Museum. Again, the meeting begins at 7:30 pm with our featured program will start at 8:00 pm

Brian Caswell presents Modern Train Photography in Middle America | April 2025
2025-04-03 19:30 - 21:00 (America/Detroit) | Cincinnati Museum Center, 1301 Western Ave, Cincinnati, OH, 45203, United States
Modern Train Photography in Middle America
About the Speaker Brian Caswell
I started shooting trains for fun in Chicago around 2008. I travel for work and take my cameras and drones with me. I take full advantage of being on the road to look for train action around the middle of the U.S.
All Cincinnati Railroad Club meetings are held in the Newsreel Theater at Union Terminal/Cincinnati Museum Center and are open to the public at no charge. We’ll begin the evening at 7:30 pm with brief club updates & announcements, followed by our featured program presentation at 8:00 pm. Parking will be validated for attendees parking in the Union Terminal/Cincinnati Museum Center parking lots.
Directions to Newsreel Theater at Union Terminal:
Enter through Union Terminal’s main entrance into the rotunda, turn left toward the Cincinnati History Museum, and the Newsreel Theater doors will be on your left between the escalator and the History Museum. Again, the meeting begins at 7:30 pm with our featured program will start at 8:00 pm

David Zeman Presents - Trains At Night | March 2025
2025-03-06 19:30 - 21:00 (America/Detroit) | Cincinnati Museum Center, 1301 Western Ave, Cincinnati, OH, 45203, United States
David Zeman philosophy on railroad night photography
About the speaker David Zeman
I have been into trains since I was young, but my passion for photography and railroads began when I was about 15. As the railroad landscape has changed, I have focused on taking my photos to another level. I also enjoy helping to provide other people opportunities to step back in time with staged photo shoots.
All Cincinnati Railroad Club meetings are held in the Newsreel Theater at Union Terminal/Cincinnati Museum Center and are open to the public at no charge. We’ll begin the evening at 7:30 pm with brief club updates & announcements, followed by our featured program presentation at 8:00 pm. Parking will be validated for attendees parking in the Union Terminal/Cincinnati Museum Center parking lots.
Directions to Newsreel Theater at Union Terminal:
Enter through Union Terminal’s main entrance into the rotunda, turn left toward the Cincinnati History Museum, and the Newsreel Theater doors will be on your left between the escalator and the History Museum. Again, the meeting begins at 7:30 pm with our featured program will start at 8:00 pm

The Art of Train Photography with Jeffrey Stoner | February 2025
2025-02-06 19:30 - 21:00 (America/Detroit) | Cincinnati Museum Center, 1301 Western Ave, Cincinnati, OH, 45203, United States
Initially, images of trains were made for documentary purposes. It wasn’t until the 1930s that photographers began to concentrate on making train images as an art form.
Jeffery will be showing some “documentary” train images dating back to the 1850s and then images from three of his favorite train art photographers who did amazing and inspiring work. Jeffery will then be showing some of his own train photography from locations across the country.
About the presenter:
Jeffery Stoner has nurtured a profound passion for photography throughout his life, but it wasn’t until 2004 that he began to promote his work commercially after receiving an invitation from a gallery in Pennsylvania to showcase his photographs. He later expanded his gallery representation within the state, and in 2007, he and his wife made the decision to move to the southeastern United States to allow him to pursue photography as a professional career.
Jeffery is especially celebrated for his striking images of the Goats of Roan and Steam Locomotives, which have attracted attention in various international, national, and regional publications.
His work is displayed in galleries across Florida, Georgia, North Carolina, Tennessee, and Virginia. In the field of train photography, he values the multi-sensory experience it provides: the visual thrill of a train approaching, the sounds it creates, the unique scent of smoke that fills the air, and the tangible vibrations felt as it passes by.
YouTube Live Stream: https://www.youtube.com/live/-WR6a9ptde8?feature=shared
All Cincinnati Railroad Club meetings are held in the Newsreel Theater at Union Terminal/Cincinnati Museum Center and are open to the public at no charge. We’ll begin the evening at 7:30 pm with brief club updates & announcements, followed by our featured program presentation at 8:00 pm. Parking will be validated for attendees parking in the Union Terminal/Cincinnati Museum Center parking lots.
Directions to Newsreel Theater at Union Terminal:
Enter through Union Terminal’s main entrance into the rotunda, turn left toward the Cincinnati History Museum, and the Newsreel Theater doors will be on your left between the escalator and the History Museum. Again, the meeting begins at 7:30 pm with our featured program will start at 8:00 pm

Steam to Steel: Butler County's Railroad Legacy with John Stewart
2025-01-09 19:30 - 22:00 (America/Detroit) | Cincinnati Museum Center, 1301 Western Ave, Cincinnati, OH, 45203, United States
Discover Butler County’s railroad legacy from the CH&D 1846 charter to the ultimate test of nature’s fury in March 1913.
About the presenter:
John Stewart’s interest in trains began when his dad took him to watch Chessie engines flitter about the New Miami ARMCO Coke plant at night. Stewart has developed an enjoyment of pre-1920s railroad history.
YouTube Live Stream: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KTZ3tkmOCm8
All Cincinnati Railroad Club meetings are held in the Newsreel Theater at Union Terminal/Cincinnati Museum Center and are open to the public at no charge. We’ll begin the evening at 7:30 pm with brief club updates & announcements, followed by our featured program presentation at 8:00 pm. Parking will be validated for attendees parking in the Union Terminal/Cincinnati Museum Center parking lots.
Directions to Newsreel Theater at Union Terminal:
Enter through Union Terminal’s main entrance into the rotunda, turn left toward the Cincinnati History Museum, and the Newsreel Theater doors will be on your left between the escalator and the History Museum. Again, the meeting begins at 7:30 pm with our featured program will start at 8:00 pm

Erik Landrum Presents | Montreal East By Rail
2024-12-05 19:30 - 21:00 (America/Detroit) | Cincinnati Museum Center, 1301 Western Ave, Cincinnati, OH, 45203, United States
We hope you join the Cincinnati Railroad Club on Thursday, December 5, 2024 for a Summer Rail type of program from Erik Landrum. This will be an in-person presentation, so be sure to attend this meeting in person. The meeting will kick off at 7:30 PM and the presentation will start at 8 PM inside the Newsreel Theater.
Erik Landrum Presents | Montreal East By Rail
We explore Canadian National from Montreal to the Atlantic, then do the same with Canadian Pacific across northern Maine into New Brunswick. Steam, diesel and electric are all here. Partons faire un tour dans l’est du Canada.
About Erik Landrum:
Erik became a railfan long before he even remembered when his father would take him trackside in western Massachusetts to watch Penn Central, Conrail, and Amtrak trains. A move to Louisville, Kentucky introduced him to the L&N and Southern. In 1984, it was a move to Cincinnati when he began taking photos and becoming a “serious” railfan. Today, he enjoys photographing trains all over North America during vacation time from his job with the City of Cincinnati permits. Besides trains, he is a fan of the Bearcats, Bengals, and Reds. Above all, he is a rabid Montreal Canadiens fan. GO HABS GO!
About the Club
All Cincinnati Railroad Club meetings are held in the Newsreel Theater at Union Terminal/Cincinnati Museum Center and are open to the public at no charge. We’ll begin the evening at 7:30 pm with brief club updates & announcements, followed by our featured program presentation at 8:00 pm. Parking will be validated for attendees parking in the Union Terminal/Cincinnati Museum Center parking lots.
Directions to Newsreel Theater at Union Terminal:
Enter through Union Terminal’s main entrance into the rotunda, turn left toward the Cincinnati History Museum, and the Newsreel Theater doors will be on your left between the escalator and the History Museum. Again, the meeting begins at 7:30 pm with our featured program will start at 8:00 pm

Hot Mallets with Fr. Dale Peterka and Members showcase!
2024-11-07 19:30 - 21:00 (America/Detroit) | Cincinnati Museum Center, 1301 Western Ave, Cincinnati, OH, 45203, United States
The presentation on Hot Mallets was featured at the recent 2024 Summerail event. This 20-minute video highlights articulated steam locomotives that have undergone restoration and are currently operational in the United States over the last forty years.
About the presenter:
Dale Peterka was raised amidst cameras, tools, and a range of machinery. Throughout his career, he has authored over twenty articles that have appeared in numerous journals and magazines. For the past fifty years, he has explored the Northwest utilizing cars, planes, motorcycles, and Amtrak trains. A former president of the Great Northern Railway Historical Society, the Cincinnati Railroad Club, and the Cincinnati Color Slide Club, Fr. Peterka has also worked as a classroom teacher, a pastor, and a hospital chaplain.
His journey commenced with 8 mm films of the Freedom Train recorded in 1975, which subsequently led to photographs of locomotives such as 4501, 2101, 610, and 765. Aside from the films, his collection features an impressive total of 15,000 train photographs.
Directions to Newsreel Theater at Union Terminal:
Enter through Union Terminal’s main entrance into the rotunda, turn left toward the Cincinnati History Museum, and the Newsreel Theater doors will be on your left between the escalator and the History Museum. Again, the meeting begins at 7:30pm with our featured program by NKY Railfan at 8:00pm.

The Cincinnati Railroad Club Presents | YouTuber NKY Railfan
2024-10-03 19:30 - 21:00 (America/Detroit) | Cincinnati Museum Center, 1301 Western Ave, Cincinnati, OH, 45203, United States
We warmly welcome you to join us for the Cincinnati Railroad Club’s October meeting! Come and listen to YouTuber NKYRailfan as he presents “Hot Spots Along Cincinnati’s Main Lines North of Town.” Be sure to save the date: Thursday, October 3, 2024, at 7:30 PM, in the Newsreel Theater at Cincinnati Union Terminal.
In this program, we will explore some of NKY Railfan’s top picks for railfanning along the historic B & O line leading to Deshler and the Norfolk Southern New Castle District heading to Muncie. We’ll observe trains at various locations and discuss what makes these spots so special to him.
About the presenter NKY Railfan:
I’ve been a railfan since I was a kid. Some of my first railfan memories are of my dad and me stopping at the Decoursey Yard in Latonia before it was completely torn out. I have always been wowed by the raw power of locomotives. However, I didn’t really learn much about how the railroads operate until the past few years. That understanding has made my time along the tracks much more enjoyable.
Stream live on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/live/f6Dr2Cf_3ag?feature=shared
Directions to Newsreel Theater at Union Terminal:
Enter through Union Terminal’s main entrance into the rotunda, turn left toward the Cincinnati History Museum, and the Newsreel Theater doors will be on your left between the escalator and the History Museum. Look for the club’s sign outside the theater doors. Again, the meeting begins at 7:30 pm with our featured program starting at 8:00 pm

Cincinnati Railways: A Modern Tour by Nolen Wright
2024-09-05 19:30 - 21:00 UTC | Cincinnati Museum Center, 1301 Western Ave, Cincinnati, OH, 45203, United States
Don’t miss out on our September 2024 event featuring a presentation by Nolen Wright, aka “Cincinnati_Railways” on Instagram. Nolen will be giving us a tour of the Cincinnati area as it looks today. You can attend in person or catch the live stream on YouTube. The broadcast will begin at 8 PM Eastern time.
Online Broadcast: https://www.youtube.com/live/YQx9dV9Dd9g?feature=shared
All Cincinnati Railroad Club meetings are held in the Newsreel Theater at Union Terminal/Cincinnati Museum Center and are open to the public at no charge. We’ll begin the evening at 7:30 pm with brief club updates & announcements, followed by our featured program presentation at 8:00 pm. Parking will be validated for attendees parking in the Union Terminal/Cincinnati Museum Center parking lots.
Directions to Newsreel Theater at Union Terminal:
Enter through Union Terminal’s main entrance into the rotunda, turn left toward the Cincinnati History Museum, and the Newsreel Theater doors will be on your left between the escalator and the History Museum. Look for the club’s sign outside the theater doors. Again, the meeting begins at 7:30 pm and our featured program will start at 8:00 pm.

1940s Day at Cincinnati Museum Center and the Cincinnati Railroad Club
2024-08-31 10:00 - 17:00 (America/Detroit) | Cincinnati Museum Center, 1301 Western Ave, Cincinnati, OH, 45203, United States
Travel back to the enchanting 1940s Day! Dive into the vibrant atmosphere filled with big band tunes, shiny chrome cars, chic pin curls, and unforgettable Zoot suits. This event pays homage to a remarkable decade, highlighting the music, fashion, automobiles, and personalities that shaped the time.
Stop by the Cincinnati Railroad Club booth to learn more about Cincinnati Union Terminal’s rich history. Books and many other things will be available for purchase. Learn how you can become a club member.
Meet Jonathan Higgins, a member of our club and a prominent YouTuber and blogger at Train Aficionado, The Scanner Guys. With over 30 years of experience in railfanning and police scanner expertise, he shares a vast array of knowledge through his live broadcasts and blog posts. Jonathan will be on hand to answer any questions you may have about police scanners and railfanning.

Club Presentation: A Railfan's Ramble Around the Northeast with Jonathan Higgins
2023-06-01 19:30 - 21:00 (America/New_York) | Cincinnati Museum Center, 1301 Western Ave, Cincinnati, OH, 45203, United States
Join us for June’s monthly club meeting, with this presentation immediately following. Club member Jonathan Higgins will be sharing a digital photo presentation entitled “A Railfan’s Ramble Around the Northeast”. Featuring everything from where to railfan, to favorite attractions this presentation has something for everyone to enjoy.
This presentation will also be streamed LIVE on the club’s YouTube channel as well for those who cannot attend in person.
About Jonathan Higgins
Jonathan, a Massachusetts native recently relocated to Cincinnati. He’s been a lifelong rail fan, blogger, modeler, and photographer. He is the host of two YouTube shows, The Scanner Guys and Train Aficionado LIVE. When he isn’t busy working, you can most likely catch him trackside. To learn more visit www.trainaficionado.com

Club Presentation: L&N Railroad Views from Cincinnati, OH to Corbin, KY
2023-05-04 19:30 - 21:00 UTC | Cincinnati Museum Center, 1301 Western Ave, Cincinnati, OH, 45203, United States
The Cincinnati Railroad Club will hold its next regular membership meeting on Thursday, May 4, 2023, at 7:30 pm. Charles Bogart will share a presentation about the L&N Railroad from Cincinnati, Ohio to Corbin, Kentucky.
Monthly member meetings are held on the first Thursday evening of most months in the Newsreel Theater at Cincinnati Union Terminal and are open to the public.
