WP 165 Sign Plate Fundraiser

Here is your chance to donate in a rather conspicuous way to the Western Pacific locomotive 165 restoration at WPRM Portola. I am in the process of replicating the enameled number plates that are bolted to the side of the cab, as well as the large Western Pacific “Feather River Route” trademarks that reside on each side of the tender.

Each of the six individual 24” tall number plates requires a sponsor at the $100.00 level. If the donor wishes I will stamp his/her initials into the plate, as long as the donation is received by April 10th, 2010. Update: Still need three more number plate sponsors!

The same did go for the 40”x 45” rectangular tender trademark logo plates. Eugene Vicknair has generously kicked off the fundraiser by donating the initial amount for the first tender logo. Update: Both tender logos have been claimed! Thanks to Eugene and James Mason!
To donate simply mail a check to:

WESTERN PACIFIC RAILROAD MUSEUM - WP 165 SIGN FUND
PO BOX 608, PORTOLA CA 96122

Important: Please note “WP 165 SIGNS” in the memo line of your check.

I you prefer to donate via Paypal Click here.

One set of original number plates removed prior to being put in storage. - Mike Mucklin photo

Tender trademark plate returned to the 165 after many years in private hands.

Some of you may wonder why we are not utilizing the original number plates or the tender logo recently returned. Simply put, these are wonderful artifacts, but due to the abuse they have taken, restorative measures would alter their current appearance (patina if you will). This would irreparably damage their value as museum artifacts. Replicas are much better suited to long-term display as well, given the value of the originals to certain less-than-reputable “collectors”. The replicas will be marked as such and no attempt to pass them off as originals will be made.

Thanks again to Eugene for preparing the artwork and overseeing the quality control on our new plates. As a donor you will be proud that you helped give the 165 its distinctive “WP Look” when they are reapplied near the end of the restoration.
I cannot thank all of you enough for your past and future support. Without you, the “Willing People”, WP history would simply pass into obscurity! - JCA

Donations to date:

Eugene Vicknair - $450.00

Norman Holmes - $100.00

James Mason - $350.00

Bob Sims - $200.00 + $1000.oo to the 165 Steam Fund