By Vance Perkins
DeQuincy Railroad Museum invites you to attend “Steamin’ Thru DQ”. Join us as we wait to see The Empress CPKC 2816 pass by our beautiful 1923 KCS Depot. The Empress is a refurbished 1930 steam locomotive that is traveling from Calgary, Alberta, Canada through the United States and ending in Mexico City, Mexico. The Final Spike Tour commemorates the merger of Canadian Pacific and KCS into the new CPKC. The locomotive will stop in seven U.S. cities as it travels across the country. Shreveport is one of the stops. It will be there on Friday May 24 from 4-8 p.m. at 4540 N. Lakeshore Dr.
While it will not stop in DeQuincy, it will be passing through on Saturday May 25. Exact time is not known but it will probably be between 9 a.m. and 12 noon. Railfans from all across the nation follow its journey, just to get a glimpse of and photograph this grand old locomotive.
Here in DeQuincy, will be one of the most impressive views as she passes by the Depot. You are invited to wait and watch as she passes by. While waiting you can visit our museum, play in the park, tour our old 1913 steam locomotive or 1947 Pullman Car. We will also be giving away popcorn, snow cones, water and cold drinks. Our DQRR Museum Kiddie Train will also be in operation. We want this to be a fun, no cost day for our kids, seniors, citizens and visitors as we wait to see this historic locomotive go by. Bring the family and a picnic lunch and spend some time with us.
If individuals, groups, churches or organizations would like to make a monetary donation to help defray our expenses or donate water or cold drinks it would be greatly appreciated. If interested in donating, stop by the museum during operating hours. Tuesday through Saturday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m or call 337-786-2823.