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Experience the Rails, Preserve the Past

Join the NRHS and Keep History on Track!

Discover what the Northern Kentucky Greater Cincinnati region has to offer in terms of railroad preservation, operation, modeling and more! 

WELCOME TO THE NATIONAL RAILWAY HISTORICAL SOCIETY OF
NORTHERN KENTUCKY- CINCINNATI

Preserving America’s Rich Railroading Legacy

 

At the National Railway Historical Society, we are the nation’s leading voice in preserving and celebrating the history of railroads across the United States.

Our mission is defined by authenticity, education, and passion, driven by railroad enthusiasts, historians, and preservationists who believe America’s rail heritage deserves to be remembered and experienced.

Through immersive exhibits, meticulously restored equipment, and interactive programs, we bring rail history to life. From steam to diesel, from historic depots to scenic excursions, we preserve the legacy of rail travel for future generations to explore and enjoy.

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PRESERVATION THROUGH EDUCATION

 

Step back into time when the railroads were just becoming a National thing. Where engineering marvels of man and steel were being formed and a community was being created by hard work and trade skills.

Its hard to fathom that nearly 32 individual buildings once formed the backbone of the Cincinnati New Orleans & Texas Pacific Railroad in Ludlow Kentucky. From heavy locomotive repair and overhaul to new passenger coach manufacturing and freight car repairs to modern diesel locomotive serving Ludlow, Kentucky was full of gifted and uniquely talented craftsmen and women. 

Here, history isn’t just observed it’s experienced.


Get your hands on the past.

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About Us

Leading the Way in Rail Preservation While There’s Still Time

Nobody questions the importance of our railways to the history of America, and yet our shared legacy is being threatened by rust, dust, the passage of time, and neglect. With its roots in the past and its eyes on the future, the NRHS is transforming rail preservation in the U.S. and now doing so by integrating STEAM education (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics) and community engagement to ensure lasting impact.

We believe in preservation through education. By connecting future generations with the legacy of rail through hands-on learning, creative exploration, and local partnerships, we’re not just saving the past, we’re inspiring the future.

Visitor Information

Hours of Operation

Saturday 11:00am - 3:00pm

Our Location

Our Phone Number

855-LUDLOWK

Membership Levels & Annual Dues

Regular Membership | $50
Student Membership | $16

A Modern Mission

Preserving Rail Through Innovation, Education, and Community

The National Railway Historical Society supports train, railway, and station preservation projects with hundreds of thousands of dollars awarded in Heritage Grants. But our mission goes beyond funding. We invest in educational initiatives, photographic archives, community events, publishing, standards development, and shared preservation resources.

As a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization, the NRHS champions programs that combine STEAM-based learning with history ensuring our work resonates with today’s youth, educators, and local communities. Contributions to NRHS are tax-deductible and help create a lasting foundation for learning and preservation.

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People are having FUN!
Take a step back into time and become involved in preservation. Learn a new skill or make a new friend either way you are preserving the past while having fun. 
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Interested in visiting the NRHS?

Explore our programs both locally and Nationally 
Become involved in the National Railway Historical Society
!
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