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| National Railroad Museum Receives State Tourism Grant to Promote New Dwight D. Eisenhower Locomotive Exhibit | The National Railroad Museum’s New Exhibit Offers a Look Into the Past While Engaging Its Patrons! | The
locomotive made international news when the National Railroad Museum loaned
the piece to the National Railway Museum of York, England for “The Great
Gathering” of A4 Class locomotives in 2013. As part of the loan agreement,
the train underwent a cosmetic restoration. Goals for promotional efforts
include increasing visits to the museum from August to October by 8 percent,
and an increase in Brown County hotel occupancy by 1 percent. Grant funds
go toward radio, TV, online advertising as well as public relations efforts.
Dwight D. Eisenhower A4 Class locomotive “The international renown of the Eisenhower has afforded the National Railroad Museum and our community as a whole an opportunity to highlight our unique history and offerings,” said Jacqueline Frank, executive director of the National Railroad Museum. “Without the JEM grant funds, we would not be able to spread our message about the new exhibit so far and effectively. Visitors from throughout the Midwest and beyond have the opportunity to enjoy something that has importance to so many throughout the world.” “Train aficionados will be so excited to have the country’s only A4 Class locomotive back in Green Bay, Wisconsin,” said Tourism Secretary Stephanie Klett. “This is a phenomenal opportunity to experience the rich culture Green Bay has to offer. We’re thrilled to support this outstanding organization with this grant, which will bring more visitors to create a positive economic impact in the community.” To celebrate the return of the Dwight D. Eisenhower locomotive, a British train renamed for President Eisenhower after World War II, the new exhibit will include an opening event on August 2 with a ceremony and exhibit tours, tea on a train, historical reenactments, science and technology activity and children’s activities, such as mini boot camp, games from the WWII era, and holiday cards to veterans. The new exhibit will feature an interactive exploration of the aerodynamic and mechanical technology used to develop this world-famous locomotive. Learners of all ages will have the opportunity to explore and learn significant historic, social and technological themes. JEM grant funds are available to non-profit organizations for the promotion of Wisconsin tourism events and destinations. The State can fund up to 75 percent of a project’s first year advertising and marketing costs and provides support for second and third year projects, but with decreasing amounts for funding each year until projects become self-sustaining. For information on the JEM Program and application materials, visit industry.travelwisconsin.com. Founded in 1956, the Museum educates the public through programs, exhibits, and preservation projects about the ongoing impact of railroads in our lives. Visiting the National Railroad Museum offers an opportunity to explore our railroad heritage. The Museum (www.nationalrrmuseum.org) is one of the oldest and largest institutions of its kind in the United States. Contact:
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