The Toledo, Lake Erie & Western Railway and Museum, Inc. (TLE&W) is a nonprofit, all-volunteer organization dedicated to preserving the railroad heritage of Northwest Ohio and Southeast Michigan. Our charitable purpose is to collect, restore, preserve, and display railroad equipment and artifacts to provide the public with an historical educational experience related to railroads in our region.
We operate a scenic 10-mile tourist railroad between Waterville and Grand Rapids, Ohio, and maintain a museum showcasing historic railroad equipment. Your membership directly supports these preservation efforts, educational programs, and exciting train excursions.
Membership Benefits
All membership levels include:
- A membership card and pass
- Invitation to the annual membership dinner
- A voice in organizational matters (except for Non-Active members)
- One-year probationary period for new members
Active members are expected to volunteer a reasonable amount of time in TLE&W activities beyond meetings. Failure to do so may result in a status change to Non-Active the following year. Active members (after probation) have voting rights in corporate matters.
Non-Active members support the organization financially without volunteering and do not have voting rights.
Membership runs for the calendar year: January 1 – December 31.
Membership Categories & Dues
| Category | Dues | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Regular/Active | $25 | Standard membership with volunteering expected and voting rights. |
| Regular/Non-Active | $30 | Support without volunteering; no voting rights. |
| Retired (65 and older) Active or Non-Active | $15 | Discounted rate for seniors. |
| Family | $90 | Up to 4 family members (children ages 0-18). Great for families to volunteer together (note: most train service positions require age 18+). |
| Corporate/Donor | $150 | For businesses or individuals providing higher support. One representative appointed. |
| Life (Active or Non-Active) | 10 × annual rate | One-time payment for lifetime membership (e.g., $250 for Active, $300 for Non-Active). Shows long-term commitment. |
Volunteer Opportunities
Many of our members enjoy hands-on involvement—whether restoring equipment, operating trains, maintaining tracks, or helping at events. Visit Volunteer Opportunities for more information!
How to Join
We’re excited to welcome new members! Our online application form with PayPal payment is coming soon.
In the meantime, please download and print the New Member Application PDF, complete it, and mail it with your payment (check payable to TLE&W) to:
Toledo, Lake Erie & Western Railway and Museum, Inc. PO Box 168 Waterville, OH 43566-0168
Please note: we do have a membership review process. Your paper or online registration and payment does not automatically activate your membership status.
For questions, contact us at: Phone: (419) 878-2177 Email: info@tlew.org Website: tlew.org
Thank you for your support! Your membership helps keep history on track.