The building that encloses the iconic 1911 steam locomotive at Pablo Historical Park is being refurbished with some help from the county.
The locomotive, placed in the Beach Boulevard park in 1982, was exposed to the harsh effects of the salt air until 1995, when it was refurbished and protected by the glass enclosure building.
Since that time, the building has been largely neglected due to the maintenance needs of the historic buildings in the park. Now, the Museum’s Board of Directors, with the assistance of former Jacksonville City Councilman Bill Gulliford, has partnered with Jacksonville to refurbish the building.
“The Beaches Museum has become a valued treasure of the Beaches community keeping our history and memories vivid and alive. I am so very proud and honored to be a small part of its community wide efforts,” said Gulliford.
Repairs, led by RG White Construction, Romano Brothers Roofing, and McIntyre Stucco & Painting, will include a new roof, re-setting of windows and painting of steel beams. Designed to increase the life of and accessibility to the building, the Beaches Museum will match the city’s contribution to the project.
“The locomotive is a destination for visitors of all ages and the building is very visible from Beach Boulevard,” said Chris Hoffman, executive director of the Beaches Museum. “We are grateful to all who are making these improvements possible so that the building can better reflect all of the great things we have going on in the Museum and the community.”
For more information on the project or to contribute to it, visit beachesmuseum.org/donate or call 904-241-5657, ext. 113.
