Photo courtesy of Jim Koski.
The Billy Jones Wildcat Railroad, Inc. is a recognized 501 (c)(3) non-profit organization dedicated to preserving the legacy of Billy Jones, and as means to preserve history and entertain the public.
The Billy Jones Wildcat Railroad operates and maintains a one-third scale railroad with both steam and diesel locomotives as well as a restored antique carousel in Oak Meadow Park.
What exactly is a one-third scale railroad? Our engines are all real engines but are one third the size of a regular engine. We operate our historical 100+ year old steam engine #2, as well Diesel engines 2502 and 3502, and have added a new steam locomotive to our fleet with #5. These engines along with our six passenger cars run on an 18” gauge track through Oak Meadow and Vasona Parks. Riders can enjoy the beautiful scenery of Vasona Lake Park as they go through our mile loop of track.
The Billy Jones Wildcat Railroad also operates a historical carousel. The W.E. “Bill” Mason Carousel is 100+ years old, and has a rich history. Originally built in Great Britain for the 1915 Panama-Pacific Exposition, the carousel was shipped to North America around the horn of South America before the Panama Canal opened. After the Panama Pacific, the carousel became part of a traveling circus, before the Billy Jones Wildcat Railroad Inc. purchased it in the 1980’s.
Visitors can experience not only a great park experience when they visit us, but are also engulfed in the rich history this train and carousel provide. In addition to our rides, the railroad also runs a snack shack with snacks and barbecue.
All proceeds made from ticket and food sales goes back into preserving the organization.
We also strive to provide employment opportunities to persons looking to gain experience in their careers. With a flexible schedule, the railroad offers year round work mostly on weekends. We provide training in customer service, money management, ticket, food, and retail sales.
At the heart of the Billy Jones Wildcat Railroad are the volunteers who work tirelessly to ensure all maintenance is taken care while keeping costs down. The railroad is always looking for great volunteers to continue the tradition and legacy of Billy Jones. If you don’t have time but have resources, all donations are tax deductible. Any help goes a long way for this little railroad.
BJWRR is comprised of a Board of Directors that meets monthly to determine policy and ensure the railroad and carousel stay true to the organization’s mission statement.
For more information about any of the aforementioned items, please contact us.