FEATHERSTONS OWN RAILWAY
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The Mini Fell Society came about in 1999 when a group of visionaries built a replica of the Rimutaka Incline Fell Engine, now housed in a Museum across the road. The Mini Fell, was the Societies first Engine and within 4 years the track was laid around Clifford Square in the centre of Featherston. The Engine Shed was built and 3 second-hand carriages were purchased, at about the same time as the tunnel, signal post and a station was finished.
Six years passed and with the magnificent gift of money, donations and dedicated fundraising and a name change to Cross Creek Railway Inc the Societies steam engine was on the drawing board. Cross Creek Railway decided on a replica Welsh Slate Mine Engine. ‘Dolgoch’ the original is still working today!
With the steam engine along came the water tower and a tremendous amount of satisfaction with all the achievements. ‘Dolgoch’ has now found a happy home in the Hutt Valley and visits the Cross Creek Railway on Carnival days.
To keep Mini Fell company ‘Sam Mac’ a replica of Kiwi Rail’s Diesel Engine has arrived, a real beauty! long, sleek and beautifully proportioned.
Another achievement of Cross Creek Railway is the train track at the Tauherenikau Race Course.
With the growth of battery operated engines Stage Two of Featherston Own Railway will have an additional Engine Shed beside the original.
The interest in Miniature Trains is huge! and world wide. It covers the joy of riding the rail, designing and manufacturing of a miniature train, also belonging to a Society of like minded people. Featherston is in a unique position of been able to expose these beautiful trains not only to the Featherston Residents but to Wairarapa tourists as well.
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