The purpose of the organization is to preserve the physical aspects and atmosphere of Pacific Coast railroading during the period from 1910 to 1960. Our mission is to develop and operate a working railroad museum for the benefit of the general public. The Association welcomes men and women who would like to share in our mission.

The Pacific Locomotive Association, Inc. operates the Niles Canyon Railway as a living history museum interpreting the importance of our heritage railroads in the development of California and the nation.

The museum is designed to increase public education, enjoyment, and appreciation of the significance of America’s western railroads by:

	Operating historic railroad equipment using standard railroad practices for train crews, signaling, block operations, and equipment maintenance.
	Preserving the atmosphere of railroads in small-town America before the 1960s by connecting the historic communities of Sunol, the Niles District of Fremont, and eventually Pleasanton.
	Providing educational programs for schools, civic organizations, and community events.
	Instructing the public in railroad history, tradition, and the evolution of rail transportation technology.

The Pacific Locomotive Association also has railroad artifacts on display and interpretive educational exhibits at the Sunol Depot.

An application to become a member volunteer may be picked up during operating hours at our Niles Station, or our Sunol Depot, or by a request to our Membership Secretary:

PLA Membership Secretary  
Post Office Box 2248  
Fremont, CA 94536-0248

Email:  pla_ncry@ncry.org

There are two ways in which you may help – with a financial donation, or by a gift of your time.

Almost all of our funding comes from individual contributions, and all of our railway operations are done by Association members on a voluntary basis. We have no paid staff.

Your financial support is needed for our museum to continue. For a donation of $36 or more per year, you will receive a subscription to our monthly newsletter, The Club Car, to keep you informed of the Association’s activities. You will also receive invitations to participate in special fundraising events and excursions.

Just check the "Supporting" box on the application form and send it along with your donation to the Membership Secretary.

You can become a volunteer in the Pacific Locomotive Association. As a member, you may help restore equipment, build track, operate trains, or do other tasks necessary to run a railroad. Applicants must be at least 18 years old. No experience is necessary. Dues are $36 per year. The first year’s dues must be submitted with your completed application form.

The Pacific Locomotive Association, Inc. is an IRS 501c (3) tax-exempt, non-profit corporation. Contributions are tax-deductible to the full extent allowed by law.