1948 Norfolk & Western Railway Caboose

Celebrate railroad history in the Dan River Region. The fully restored Norfolk and Western caboose—donated by the Danville Register & Bee in 2001—opens the door to another time. Standing 14 feet tall to the top of its smokestack, the train car allows guests to step into train travel of the past.

The Caboose was renovated with support from Caesars Virginia in 2026, restoring both its vibrant red exterior and its beautifully preserved interior to look like it just came off the assembly line. An earlier restoration from 2004–2006 was funded by the Gabriella Garden Club and coordinated by Dr. William C. Pavord.

Specifications of the Caboose

Weight

Cabin: 45,300 pounds

Trucks: 7,200 pounds each

Length

Coupled Length: 36 feet, 8 ¾ inches

Cabin and Platforms: 34 feet, 2 ¾ inches

Height

Top of Rail to Top of Smokestack: 14 feet, 10 ½ inches

Top of Rail to Peak of Roof: 13 feet, 9 ½ inches

Width

Between Caboose Steps: 9 feet, 9 ⅛ inches

Between Cupola Walls: 8 feet, 8 ⅞ inches

Cabin Lining

½ inch plywood

Floor

Two layers of 25/32 inch oak, tongue and groove

Windows

9/16 inch FRA-approved glaze glass with rock guards on cupola windows

Interior Lighting

Aladdin oil lamps, No. 23,000