Courtesy photo The Soo Line Steam Engine #730, located at the end of Delta Avenue and along highway U.S. 2 and 41 in Gladstone, has once again been lit up with lights for the holiday season.

GLADSTONE — Thanks to donations from the Delta County community and others across the Upper Peninsula, Soo Line Steam Engine #730 has come alive again this year with Christmas lights, ribbons and bows.

Located at the end of Delta Avenue and along highway U.S. 2 and 41 in Gladstone, the engine has been a historical landmark since 1960, when the Soo Line Railroad donated it to the Soo Line Retirees to maintain. All but one of the retirees have passed away and can no longer maintain the engine.

Over three years ago, a 501(c)(3) authority was formed to help raise funds and restore, refurbish, and provide day-to-day maintenance for the engine. A separate fund was also established to perpetual care of the engine after the authority is gone.

“It’s our Christmas gift to the community for all the donations and support,” said Authority President John Pickard. “More is left to do to improve the sight (of the engine), with some painting and work inside the cab (needed), with a new floor and (we) hope to get the Whistle to sound once more.”

The authority teamed up with Nantastic Grooming at 817 and 819 Delta Ave. for the Old Fashioned Christmas event held Friday, Nov. 29 to offer roast-your-own hot dogs, popcorn and water.

Planning is underway for the annual four-person golf fundraiser on May 29 at the Escanaba Golf Course.

Donations continue to be sought for restoration and perpetual care. Donations can be sent to the Community Foundation for Delta County, which is managing donations, at 2420 1st Ave South, Escanaba, Michigan, 49829, in care of Soo Line #730.