Francene and Diamond Don Rainey are very pleased to announce that Kirby Family Farms, Inc., a 501(c)3, is now the proud owner of the Robert E. Lee Steam Train. The train was moved from Six Guns Territory in Ocala Florida to Jefferson, in 1984 and has now found its way back to Florida. Kirby Family Farm is an entertaining, educating destination providing fun for all ages. Daryl and Tracy Kirby have the energy and resources to put the steam train back on the track. They already have several trains, so this steam train will be a good addition to their Family Farm attraction.
Don and Francene bought the train in 2002. After 17 years, the couple is ready to head into semi-retirement and wanted to find a home for the train where families could enjoy the ride. Daryl Kirby has wanted to own this train since he was ten years old. He and wife, Tracy, first started talking to the Rainey’s in 2014. It is a perfect match for this 1962 Crown Metal Products 4-4-0 Steam Train as Kirby Family Farm’s mission is “Helping children stay on track, or get back on track in life! Growing healthy children and families”. It’s all about the children, says Don and Francene. Their foundation, Jefferson Railway and Wetlands Foundation, supports affordable family-fun adventures, preserving railroading for generations to come and protecting the wildlife.
Historic Jefferson Railway plans to continue running their gas-powered locomotive on weekends and for special events.
Click the link below for the press release