Wooden window repair

Keep our historic caboose in visitor-friendly condition by repairing the wooden window frames in its cupola, which is currently off-limits due to the compromised frames. Young visitors and railfans have long treasured the opportunity to climb into the caboose's cupola to take in the conductor's view, so help us keep it safe for them to do so!

The ideal volunteer for this role can manage all aspects of the window's repair—including removal from the caboose, sealing the open area until repairs are complete, making the repairs (either at the Depot or in your own workshop) and putting the window back into place afterward. 

Responsibilities may include:

• Visiting and evaluating the job on site

• Providing an estimated timeline for the repair

• Water-sealing the cupola while the window is being repaired

• Planning and purchasing a list of supplies, to be reimbursed by IHM (preapproval required)

• Navigating steep ladders inside and outside the caboose and standing on its roof if necessary

• All wood- and glasswork necessary to repair the window

• Repainting the frame to match the caboose

• Reinstalling the repaired window

If you're new to wooden window repair, the Northwest Railway Museum (NWRM) is hosting a workshop August 9 and 10. See details on their website.