Gelderse Smalspoor Foundation, railway museum in Gelderland, Netherlands
The Gelderse Smalspoor Foundation is a railway museum in Heteren focused on the history of narrow-gauge lines in the Gelderland region. The museum displays old locomotives, wagons, and machines from when these trains were used for transport and industry.
These narrow-gauge lines developed in the 19th century to move agricultural products and industrial goods efficiently. Many lines disappeared later when wider railways took over this role and transport modernized.
The foundation preserves stories about how small railways shaped daily life and work in the region. The volunteers share knowledge about the role these trains played in moving people and goods, and what that meant for local communities.
The museum is located in Heteren and designed so visitors can explore comfortably, with seating and information accessible to all ages. Staff and volunteers answer questions and regularly organize train rides to bring the past to life.
One of the most important pieces in the collection is a locomotive built by German company Orenstein & Koppel with a special water-cooling system by Deutz. This rare RL1a model shows what international technology was used in Dutch railways.
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