Exhibition: Steam, Smoke and Steel: Riding the Rails Through Time

The Brazos Valley Museum of Natural History proudly announces the opening of its exhibit, Steam, Smoke & Steel: Riding the Rails through Time, on display from November 17 - May 18, 2024. Opening in National Model Railroad Month, this exclusive in-house exhibit highlights the captivating history of trains.

On Friday, November 17, at 6:30pm, the public is invited to a free opening with a fascinating presentation by Dr. Robert Holzweiss, George H.W. Bush Presidential Library and Museum, and Henry Mayo, surveyor and local historian. A reception featuring wine, appetizers, live music, and galley viewing will follow.

Visitors will have the opportunity to explore railway's humble beginnings, the North American westward expansion, and the myriad of ways trains have changed national and local life. The exhibition includes a beautiful diorama featuring local Bryan/College Station train history, stunning photographs, artifacts, and model trains.

The Museum's display complements the upcoming opening in June 2024 of the George H. W. Bush Presidential Library and Museum's new expansion housing the historic Union Pacific No. 4141 Engine. It was originally created as a rolling tribute to the 41st President, and in December 2018, 4141 led the Bush funeral train to College Station, to lay the former president to rest alongside First Lady Barbara Bush.

Steam, Smoke, & Steel partners include the City of College Station, Temple Railroad and Heritage Museum, The George H.W. Bush Presidential Library and Museum, The Carnegie History Center, and private lenders.

The Brazos Valley Museum of Natural History is committed to promoting science, and cultural and natural history with the integration of art in exhibits and educational programs. This exhibit was made possible in part through Hotel Tax Revenue funded from the City of College Station & the City of Bryan through the Arts Council of Brazos Valley.