GOLDEN, Colo. — The Colorado Railroad Museum has unveiled plans to restore ex-Rio Grande Southern narrow-gauge caboose No. 0404, with the goal of having it ready to accompany RGS 4-6-0 No. 20 to the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad for special excursions in early 2026 [See “Colorado Railroad Museum, Durango & Silverton announce plans…” News Wire, July 3, 2025].
The caboose, originally built in 1903 at the RGS shops in Ridgway, Colo., holds the unique distinction of being the only “long caboose” owned by the financially turbulent railroad. Over the years, No. 0404 endured several accidents but was continually repaired. Its storied history includes a move to Bob Richardson’s Narrow Gauge Motel & Museum before eventually becoming part of the the museum’s collection.
The restoration is made possible by financial backing including a $40,000 Challenge Grant from the Narrow Gauge Preservation Foundation and contributions from individual donors, according to a news release from the museum. The release also states that Durango & Silverton crews have already commenced the rehabilitation effort and transported the caboose to Durango in May for the planned overhaul and repainting.
“The Colorado Railroad Museum is gearing up to commemorate Colorado’s 150th anniversary, alongside America’s 250th anniversary in 2026,” said Paul Hammond, Colorado Railroad Museum’s executive director. “Part of what we aim to share are ‘Live Rail Experiences,’ with locomotives and railcars traveling throughout Colorado.”
The museum emphasizes that the caboose’s participation in events with No. 20 is contingent on the progress of its restoration. Updates will continue and be shared at ColoradoRailroadMuseum.org as the project develops.
Tickets for the early 2026 excursions behind No. 20 are already available on the Durango & Silverton website.
