Wisconsin NRHS is a chapter of the National Railway Historical Society.
The NRHS was founded in 1935 by a group of rail historians. It has since grown from 40 founding members to include thousands of men and women of all ages and professions in every state and many foreign countries, making it the nation's largest rail preservation and historical society. More information about NRHS may be found at www.nrhs.com.
The Wisconsin Chapter was founded in 1950. Our purpose is to gather, preserve and disseminate information, both historic and current, pertaining to railroading in Wisconsin and the Upper Midwest.
The chapter holds membership meetings on the first Friday evening of most months in Fox Point, just north of Milwaukee, and streamed online. Meeting programs are presented by leading local railroad historians, photographers, enthusiasts, and people involved with the railroad industry. Meetings are always open to the public, and no admission fee is charged. If you find yourself aligned with the goals of the chapter, or if you find value in our meeting programs, please consider joining.
Bookmark the chapter's YouTube channel (youtube.com/@NRHSWis) and follow us on Facebook.
Wisconsin Chapter meetings are held on the first Friday of every month (except July & August), at 7:30 p.m., in the lower level meeting room of the North Shore Congregational Church, 7330 North Santa Monica Boulevard in Fox Point, Wisconsin. Click here for a Bing map and directions.
Our meetings are always open to members and anyone who has an interest in railroad history or today's railroad operations. No admission fee is charged.
We stream our meetings via Zoom for the benefit of anyone who cannot attend in-person. To be advised of Zoom connection information, and to receive occasional chapter updates, become a member today.
Upcoming meetings:
Saturday, August 23, 2025
A Historic Day on the Rails: The Soo Line 1003 Returns!
Join Us to Celebrate 75 Years of Railroad History!
On Saturday, August 23, 2025, we're bringing you a once-in-a-lifetime chance to witness Wisconsin's railroad history come to life! In honor of the 75th Anniversary of the Wisconsin Chapter of the National Railway Historical Society, the legendary Soo Line #1003 2-8-2 Mikado steam locomotive will be steamed up and running once again!
With our partners at Steam Locomotive Heritage Association, we are excited to present a special excursion from Hartford, WI to Burnett, WI and back — giving you a front-row seat to the nostalgia of a bygone era.
Here’s What You Can Expect:
- Departure from Hartford: Around 7:30 AM
- Route: Hartford → Horicon → Burnett → Horicon → Hartford
- Special Moments: Enjoy the sight and sounds of the #1003 pulling a short train through the beautiful Wisconsin countryside, so get your cameras ready! 📸
- Coal Stop: Watch as the crew adds coal to the #1003 in Burnett to fuel this historic steam locomotive! (Approx 10:30AM)
- All times are subject to change
✨ Why You Should Be Trackside:
- Witness a 112-year-old steam locomotive in action, rolling past you with all the power and charm of a century ago!
- A fantastic way to introduce the whole family to the rich history of railroads in Wisconsin.
- It’s FREE to watch the train from trackside — just bring your family, your camera, and your love for history!
Come out, bring the kids, and be a part of history! Whether you're a train enthusiast, a history buff, or just looking for something unique to do with the family, this event is sure to be a memorable experience for all ages.
Safety First!
As always please stay a safe distance from the rails at all times! Railroad property is private property, so please stay respectful. Help us keep the celebration safe and enjoyable for everyone.
Stay safe and listen for the whistle!
📅 Save the Date:
Saturday, August 23, 2025
Tag your friends, family, and fellow history lovers in this post! Let us know in the comments if you're planning to come — we’d love to hear your thoughts and excitement!
http://steamlocomotiveheritage.org/contribute/
#SooLine1003 #NRHS #SteamLocomotive #FamilyFun #TrainLovers #WisconsinRailroads #NationalRailwayHistoricalSociety #HistoricJourney #TracksideFun #Steam
Friday, September 5, 2025, 7:30 PM CDT - Members' Favorite Slide Night
Our annual opportunity for all members to share their favorite railroad photos!
As most of the photographers in our group have switched to digital media, the term "slide" is a bit of a misnomer, but serves to convey the rich tradition and history of our annual start-of-the-season program. The subject matter is up to you - what you did on your summer vacation, a few shots of a unique or out-of-the-way railroad operation, steam action from back in the day, railroads in transition in the 1980s, recent pics of trains or photos from deep in your vault. This is is your chance to shine!
Members who wish to show their favorite "slides" should This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. to sign up.
This meeting will be held in-person, at our regular venue in Fox Point, and also streamed on the Zoom platform.
If you are able, please attend in person at our regular meeting venue in Fox Point; doors open before 7:00 pm for social time. Those who cannot attend in person are encouraged to participate remotely, via Zoom. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED to access this event remotely: click here to register. After successful registration, you will receive an email from Zoom with information on how to join the meeting.