Thank you for your interest in preserving the rich history of railroading in Northwest Ohio! At the Toledo, Lake Erie & Western Railway (TLEW), we are dedicated to collecting and showcasing artifacts, documents, photographs, and other items that tell the story of our region’s railroad heritage. Whether you have items from historic lines like the Wabash, Nickel Plate Road, or local short lines, we welcome opportunities to acquire them through donation or purchase.
If you’re considering donating or selling historical assets, please use the form below to provide details. Our team will review your submission and get in touch to discuss next steps. Donations may qualify for tax deductions (consult your tax advisor), and we evaluate purchases based on historical significance and condition.
What We’re Interested In:
- Artifacts: Tools, lanterns, signals, uniforms, or equipment from Northwest Ohio railroads.
- Documents and Photos: Timetables, maps, blueprints, employee records, or vintage photographs.
- Memorabilia: Signs, tickets, posters, or other ephemera related to local rail history.
- Larger Items: Rolling stock parts, signage, or structures (subject to space and feasibility).
- Other: Any item with a connection to railroading in areas like Toledo, Maumee, or surrounding counties.
We prioritize items with provenance (e.g., stories or documentation of origin) and those tied to the Toledo, St. Louis and Western Railroad (aka Clover Leaf, later Nickel Plate Road and Norfolk & Western). All submissions are handled confidentially.