Hoosier Valley Railroad Museum hosts civilians & soldiers in History Day this weekend

Monday, July 6, 2026 at 10:00 PM

By Kathy Bottorff

History comes alive this weekend at the Hoosier Valley Railroad Museum as it hosts its annual Civilians & Soldiers in History Day on Saturday, July 11th, featuring both diesel and steam train excursions through the Northwest Indiana countryside alongside a full day of living history displays and demonstrations on the museum grounds.

For those who can't wait until Saturday, a special diesel excursion is scheduled for Friday, July 10th at 6:00 p.m. Central Time.

Train excursions depart round-trip from the depot, traveling approximately five miles through the scenic countryside to the Kankakee River at English Lake before returning to North Judson. Each trip lasts about 45 minutes, and passengers have their choice of riding in open-air sightseeing cars, vintage coaches, or first-class accommodations. Excursion tickets start at $14.00.

Seating is limited, and organizers strongly recommend purchasing tickets in advance. Tickets can be ordered online at hoosiervalley.org or by calling the depot at 574-896-3950 on Saturdays.

While the train rides require a ticket, admission to the museum grounds is always free. This Saturday, military and civilian reenactors from various eras of U.S. history will be on hand to explain displays, answer questions, and participate in scheduled demonstrations throughout the day. Guests can also view the museum's restored WWII Pullman Troop Car and explore one of the largest collections of working railroad signals, rolling stock, engines, and railroading memorabilia in the region.

The Hoosier Valley Railroad Museum runs regular Saturday excursions pulled by diesel or steam engines from May through September, including fan-favorite Ice Cream Trains. The fall season brings Pumpkin Trains, and Santa Trains roll through in late November and December. Times and prices vary by event, and popular excursions sell out quickly.

The museum is an all-volunteer, not-for-profit organization dedicated to the preservation and education of railroading history. Special group events, including school group outings, can be arranged by contacting the depot directly.

For a complete schedule of events and to purchase tickets, visit hoosiervalley.org.