Railroad Exhibit Opens at Museum

After years of researching and collecting information and materials, the Cedar Key Historical Society Museum opened their new railroad exhibit on August 9th. The exhibit is housed in the restored Andrew's Home segment of the museum.

A manikin in full conductor's regalia greets visitors to the Railroad Exhibit. The uniform is 103 years old and was worn by Clyde D. Coulter Sr. when he worked for the railroad between 1911 and 1915. The uniform, donated to the museum by his granddaughter Dottie Grix, was made by the Pettiborne Uniform Tailors of Cincinnati Ohio.

Named the Atlantic, Gulf and West India Transit Company, the rail line was a monument to the engineering skills of Joseph Finnegan & Company who built it. It was also the culmination of Augustus Steele and David Levy Yulee's dream to unite the two coasts of Florida. Trains arrived in Cedar Key daily from their departure point in Fernandina, and passengers could then make connections to continue onward by boat to such exotic ports as New Orleans and Cuba.

The baggage area was located on the pier next to the deep water channel.

The exhibit traces the history of the rail line from it's incorporation in 1853, through it's role in the Civil War, and it's ultimate demise in 1932.

The exhibit includes artifacts, photographs and bits of memorabilia, artfully displayed by the clever hand of Elizabeth Ehrbar, who was instrumental in the research and creation of this fascinating look at a part of Cedar Key's rich history.

Steamer trunks, like the one on display, were used by travelers from the 1800's through the 1930's.

For additional information you can visit the Cedar Key Historical Society Museum, located at 7070 "D" Street, or call 352-543-5549.