John Hay Center seeks community support for caboose restoration

The John Hay Center is asking for community support to help restore its 1929 Monon Caboose, a historic piece of Salem’s railroad heritage.

Linda Underwood, Depot Manager at the John Hay Center, said the organization has received a Heritage Support Grant from the Indiana Historical Society to fund much-needed rehabilitation efforts for the caboose. Planned work includes building a new secure platform, replacing the roof, improving access stairs, installing new windows, and completing the project with a fresh coat of paint.

While the grant will cover a large portion of the expenses, the John Hay Center must raise a $7,500 match to ensure the project’s completion.

Donations to the project are tax deductible, as the John Hay Center is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization.

Those interested in contributing can contact the Depot at (812) 883-1884 or depot@johnhaycenter.org, visit the Depot in person at 206 South College Avenue, or reach out to the John Hay Center directly at (812) 883-6495 or info@johnhaycenter.org.