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The Ironhorse Central Railroad Museum has a new attraction up and running and ready for riders.

A 1920s-era steam locomotive was recently started up again at the museum in rural Chisago City. It is the first time that the old black steam engine has ridden the tracks of the museum in about eight years.

Museum Executive Director Richard Thompson, who opened the museum in 1966, purchased the HK Porter Co. engine in 1963. After a full restoration, the train was put into use at the museum on and off for the next four decades.

Its most recent run was in 1999. The engine is used for rides and as an exhibit temporarily before it is put back in the shop until the next time.

Museum Administrator Eric Thompson said the small staff and several volunteers are busy working on other projects in between, and keeping the 85-year-old engine up and running would be a full-time job.

"It takes many weeks of work just to have it ready to pass state inspections," Eric said.

The Thompsons are proud that their engine was the only operating steam engine in the state for many years. The steam engine, which simply uses water heated to create steam that powers the pistons and turns the wheels, was the standard for train engines until the diesel engine was invented.

In addition to the Porter steam engine, the museum is home to five diesel locomotives, two other steam engines, a Bumblebee train, 25 railroad cars including seven cabooses and many motor cars.

It takes many hours to keep the trains operational, but fortunately for the Thompsons, there are train enthusiasts willing to volunteer to help.

Now, passengers will be able to take a trip back in time as they ride behind the historic steam engine as it pulls them on a flat car and caboose. The museum will host a special two-day event Friday and Saturday, Sept. 21-22. Trips will be offered on a one-mile looped track around the countryside museum grounds. The looped track was completed in 1984.

Rides will generally be offered hourly at $15 for adults and $10 for children and ages 55 and over. This price offers customers unlimited rides throughout the day. Concessions will also be for sale at the museum, and the rest of its exhibits and buildings will be open for touring.

The museum is open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Thursday through Saturday. For more information, call (651) 336-4531 or visit its web site, www.ironhorsecentral.com.

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