Railroad Museum rescues historic train car being used as home in Central El Paso

A historic railcar that was being used as a home in Central El Paso was excavated Jan. 8, and the nonprofit Railroad & Transportation Museum of El Paso plans to restore the "Express-Baggage Car" — which appears to date to the railroad's earliest history in El Paso.

The railcar was at 5020 Gateway East, near Raynolds Street. The residence was scheduled for demolition to make way for the development of the Texas Tech Medical School campus.

The railroad museum had been in talks with the owner of the property for years, but it wasn't until the owner offered to donate the railcar that the museum investigated its past. The nonprofit group had assumed it was a standard "Coach" car from the late 1800s; however, it was uncovered to be a somewhat rarer find — an "Express-Baggage Car." It was also determined that it had been built on a solid wood frame, which suggests that it was rolling in the Southwest when the first trains arrived in El Paso in 1881. By the 1890s, all cars were constructed on iron and later steel frames.

The car could have been used by Wells Fargo and other historic express companies, or possibly to deliver mail. Restoration and research will reveal details about the railcar's history in the area, the museum's executive director, Prince McKenzie, said in a release.

The excavation cost about $20,000 and the restoration will cost even more, he said. The museum is seeking donations to offset expenses, and is looking for sponsor to help with restoration costs. The museum is a nonprofit tax exempt organization, and donations can be made to PO Box 5722; El Paso, TX 79955. The museum can be reached at 915-422-3420.