Handy Dandy Railroad

09/29/2026

Our crew has been hard at work and we have a new update on the Locomotive #9 Restoration Project!

After doing a thorough boiler engineering analysis and compiling a work list of what needed to be repaired, the next step in the process was removing the cab and appliances, such as the air compressor, to gain access to the side sheets and wrapper sheet.

It became apparent during the engineering analysis that the boiler sheets themselves were in good condition, minus a few small areas of localized fire-side thinning that will also be addressed. However, the boiler’s staybolts were badly worn, and a decision was made to renew all of the crown staybolts along with both side sheets, totaling nearly 400 staybolts.

09/10/2026

Here’s the Handy Dandy Railroad train schedule for the Carolina Pickers Antique & Auto Festival!

Take a look below and plan your ride with us.

09/09/2026

Engine #9 Restoration Update

After multiple third-party inspections and evaluations of Locomotive #9, a group has been selected to carry out the locomotive’s restoration and return it to operation.
The current scope of work includes, but is not limited to, firebox repairs, retubing the boiler, work on the running gear, renewing the locomotive’s tires, rebuilding the air brake system, and addressing the safety appliances.

Overall, for a locomotive of #9’s age, the engine is in good condition. Both the boiler and running gear have held up well. However, the locomotive has accumulated a significant amount of normal maintenance over the years and has never undergone a major overhaul like the type routinely performed on mainline steam locomotives during the steam era.

The boiler work is already well underway. While we do not have an exact completion date at this time, progress is being made. Work on the running gear will begin in the coming months as the boiler work moves closer to completion.

Restoring a steam locomotive of this age is a major undertaking, and bringing #9 back to the rails will take time, resources, and a tremendous amount of teamwork. Donations of money, tools, materials, parts, and other useful items are all appreciated. Every contribution helps move this project forward.

As we continue this restoration journey, be ready to mark your calendars for the 2027 Denton FarmPark Gala. More details about the 2027 Gala, including the date, theme, tickets, and ways to participate, will be announced soon.

Putting #9 back on the rails will be a large group effort. It is a piece of history worth preserving, and that effort starts with all of us.

09/01/2026

🧱🚂 THE FIRST ROUND OF BRICKS HAVE BEEN PLACED! 🚂🧱

For those who may not have known, we have a plan to upgrade and improve the Train Station area at Denton FarmPark, and we are excited to see the project continue to take shape!

One part of this project is our engraved brick walkway. We are offering the opportunity for you to purchase a brick that can be personally engraved with your name, family, business, or a special message.

❤️ And there’s an even bigger reason to be a part of it!

The money raised from the brick sales will go toward the restoration and repair of Steam Locomotive #9. (An update on 9 is coming soon!)

So when you purchase a brick, you’re not only becoming a permanent part of the Train Station area — you’re also helping us bring #9 one step closer to getting back on the rails!

🧱 The first round is down, and we can’t wait to see this walkway grow!

Thank you to everyone who has already purchased a brick and supported the future of the Handy Dandy Railroad and #9! ❤️🚂

Want to purchase a brick? Visit the Train Station at our next event!

09/01/2026