The Toledo, Lake Erie & Western Railway and Museum (TLE&W) is a nonprofit, volunteer-run organization dedicated to preserving Northwest Ohio’s railroad heritage. Established in 1965 and incorporated in 1969, it operates on a 10-mile stretch of historic track between Waterville and Grand Rapids, Ohio, originally part of the Toledo, St. Louis and Western Railroad (aka Clover Leaf, later Nickel Plate Road and Norfolk & Western). The museum showcases vintage locomotives, railcars, and equipment, offering visitors a glimpse into the region’s rail history. Its signature Bluebird Passenger Train, though currently not running due to track restoration, is a focal point of ongoing volunteer efforts. The TLE&W also features a scenic 901-foot bridge over the Maumee River, the largest owned by a tourist railroad east of the Mississippi. In 2014, the museum expanded by acquiring the Waterfront Electric Railway Museum in Grand Rapids, enhancing its historical displays and community engagement.

• Founded in 1965: A 501(c)(3) nonprofit serving Northwest Ohio for over five decades.
• Historic Track: Operates on 10 miles of former Clover Leaf track, crossing the Maumee River on a 1916 bridge.
• Bluebird Passenger Train: A beloved attraction, with volunteers working to restore service.
• Volunteer-Driven: Relies entirely on community support, with opportunities for membership and donations.
• Educational Goals: Offers motorcar rides, open houses, and displays to teach about rail history, open May to October.
• Community Impact: Engages visitors with scenic rides, historical exhibits, and events, preserving Ohio’s transportation legacy.