Discover what it takes to preserve history, be it one rail, one wheel or one board at a time. At the Toledo, Lake Erie & Western Railway and Museum (TLE&W), we’re more than a museum—we’re a living testament to Northwest Ohio’s rich railroad legacy. As a dedicated volunteer, you’ll join a passionate community breathing life into vintage locomotives, scenic tracks, and unforgettable stories from the golden age of rail travel. Whether you’re a lifelong rail fan or simply love hands-on history, your time and energy will help keep the whistle blowing for generations to come.

Nestled along a picturesque 10-mile stretch of historic track between Waterville and Grand Rapids, Ohio, TLE&W has been safeguarding the region’s railroad heritage since 1965. Originally part of the Toledo, St. Louis and Western Railroad, our line later became a vital artery under the Nickel Plate Road and Norfolk & Western systems. Today, as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit incorporated in 1969, we operate as a fully volunteer-run organization, showcasing a large collection of vintage locomotives, rail cars, and equipment that transport visitors back in time.

Our crown jewel? The iconic 901-foot 1916-built through-truss bridge, a beloved fixture that once delighted riders with scenic journeys across the Maumee River, the longest active bridge owned by a tourist railroad east of the Mississippi. Though passenger services paused in 2009 for essential track restorations, our volunteers are tirelessly working to revive the Bluebird Passenger Train, ensuring this piece of history chugs back to life. In 2014, we expanded our horizons by acquiring the Waterfront Electric Railway Museum in Grand Rapids, adding even more layers to our exhibits on Ohio’s transportation past.

Volunteering at TLE&W isn’t just about giving back—it’s about becoming part of a vibrant, tight-knit crew that’s kept this nonprofit humming for over 50 years. Our all-volunteer model means every contribution counts: from restoring century-old railcars to guiding visitors through tales of the Clover Leaf era, you’ll directly fuel our mission to educate and inspire about Northwest Ohio’s rail roots.

Volunteers often share how these experiences foster lifelong friendships, sharpen practical skills (think welding, carpentry, or event coordination), and connect you to a community of fellow enthusiasts. Plus, as a member of our extended rail family, you’ll enjoy perks like behind-the-scenes access, priority event invites, and the pure joy of seeing history roll forward—thanks to you.

In the words of one dedicated TLE&W supporter: “It’s where history comes alive along the scenic tracks.” Your involvement helps sustain not just our tracks, but the stories and innovations that powered a nation.

• Track Maintenance Crew: Hands-on restoration work
• Landscaping/grounds keeping
• Restoration: Rehabilitating our historical assets to their former glory
  • Woodworking/carpentry
  • Metal working/welding
  • Painting/bodywork
• Tour Guide Positions: Sharing stories with visitors
• Event Support: Assisting at open houses and rides
• Technology
  • Media
    • video
    • photography
    • editing
  • Website
    • administration
    • content writer

No prior experience? No problem! We welcome all skill levels and can provide training to get you up to speed. Opportunities are flexible, fitting around your schedule, and every role plays a vital part in our ongoing restoration and community outreach. Several positions don’t require any railroad knowledge at all!