The Soo Line No. 730 steam engine along U.S. 2 and 41 in Gladstone has again been decorated for Christmas. (Contributed photo)

GLADSTONE — Soo Line steam engine No. 730 once again is festively decorated for the season with Christmas lights and ribbons and bows, thanks to ongoing donations from Delta County residents and others in the Upper Peninsula.

Located along U.S. 2 and 41 in Gladstone, the locomotive has been a historical landmark since 1960, when the Soo Line Railroad leased it to area Soo Line retirees and union members for care and maintenance. For decades, the retirees faithfully preserved the engine, but as time passed and retirees passed away, maintenance of the relic chugged to a standstill.

However, in 2021, a number of local volunteers, recognizing the importance of the landmark, sought to ensure the steam engine’s survival. Under the leadership of Gladstone resident John Pickard, whose father had worked for the Soo Line, this group began meeting regularly with the objective to “bring the locomotive out of disrepair, restore its dignity and secure its future through organized fundraising and community support.”

They succeeded in establishing the Gladstone Michigan Soo Line Steam Engine No. 730 Authority, a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization.

The authority has since created an endowment fund at the Delta County Community Foundation to guarantee perpetual care of the locomotive long after the current generation of volunteers is gone.

This fund also supports the nonprofit’s long-term vision to establish a Welcome Center and Historical Museum that will further honor Gladstone’s rail heritage and provide educational and cultural benefits for residents and visitors alike.

All donations are tax-exempt and being accepted by the Community Foundation for Delta County, 2420 First Ave. S. in Escanaba. People who wish to contribute to the cause can write checks out “In care of Soo Line #730.”

One of the major fundraisers for the nonprofit is an annual four-person golf scramble. Planning is underway for next year’s event, which is set for May 28 at the Escanaba Country Club.

Through the commitment of volunteers, Pickard’s leadership and the generosity of the community, Soo Line No. 730 continues to stand as a symbol of Gladstone’s history, pride and future.