Linden Museum Launches $30,000 Fundraiser

The Linden Depot Museum, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit railroad museum located along U.S. 231, 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.

Donated by the Norfolk & Western Railway, caboose 497 has been displayed outdoors for several years and has suffered significant weather-related deterioration. Project 497 aims to restore the caboose’s exterior appearance, returning it to a condition worthy of public display and long-term preservation.

With the scope of work and the museum’s limited volunteer resources, funds raised will be used to hire professional restoration services. The project includes surface preparation and repainting, with work expected to begin in the spring and conclude by the end of 2026.

Any funds raised beyond the project’s needs will be applied toward future preservation efforts, including repairs to the historic depot building and stabilization of other outdoor exhibits.

The Linden Depot Museum thanks all supporters for helping preserve this important piece of railroad history for future generations.

For more information or to donate, please visit the Linden Depot Museum’s GoFundMe page: https://gofund.me/41580a477, or contact museum president, Gary Vierk at (765) 427-3630. Donations may also be mailed directly to Linden Depot Museum, Project 497, P.O. Box 154, Linden, IN 47955.