South Bay Historical Railroad Society, Inc.

05/28/2026

We invite you to become a member if you enjoy
-history
-trains
-museums & artifacts
-model trains
-layout building and maintenance
-putting on events
-and meeting new people!

https://f.mtr.cool/vhczvgpuhr

05/26/2026

We are open this evening 5-8pm. Come visit our model train layouts!

05/26/2026

Looking for space to rent? 🌟

Look no further! We offer a fantastic meeting space that's perfect for individuals, organizations, and companies eager to host gatherings or events in a truly unique and memorable setting. Our versatile space accommodates 12-100 people, whether it's for a single day or multiple-day events.

Discover more on our webpage: https://f.mtr.cool/wyqqmryegf

05/25/2026

🇺🇸 Today, we pause to honor the courageous military personnel who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to our country.

📷: Locomotive 4014 "Big Boy" in Portola, CA April 7, 2026 by Cydney George-Abatecola

05/25/2026

Typically used in sets of three, this primary track battery produced 1 volt and was self charging. Its function was to provide low voltage to the rail in a given signal block. When a set of train wheels entered the block's rails, they created a shunt (voltage drop) which dropped the corresponding track relay. The signal control relay is operated by the track relay.

05/23/2026

Join us and a bunch of other bay area museums and railroads for a fun weekend at Ardenwood Historic Farm and The Railroad Museum at Ardenwood - SPCRR 10-4 all 3 days this weekend!

We have SO MANY exciting friends coming to Rail Fair next weekend! In addition to our model train layouts and our own museum displays, other museums from across the region will be sharing exhibits of their own.

NEW THIS YEAR: Transit! Representatives for ACE, Gold Runner, and CA High Speed Rail will be at Rail Fair. Stop by and say hi and see what's new with your local and state transit network.

Advance tickets are available! https://spcrr.org/rail-fair

05/22/2026

One of three stations to be built in San Jose, the current station is now an intermodal transit hub for Caltrain, ACE, VTA light rail, Amtrak and bus lines. It features Italian Renaissance Revival style architecture with a three-story central section and two-story wings. Built in 1935 , it replaced the original Market/Bassett Street depot. Photos from the links below.

Do you have photos of the San Jose station? If you like history and trains, give us a follow!

More historical information:
https://f.mtr.cool/gazukrphgh
https://f.mtr.cool/kendqvoqnp
https://f.mtr.cool/fejyatfyvn

05/21/2026

Love trains? 🚂 Explore our guide for enthusiasts of all ages! Discover train museums, scenic rides, model sets, and join clubs or community events celebrating trains. Dive into activities and resources to fuel your passion. Start your train adventure here:

Link: https://f.mtr.cool/lqvxzapdzs

Happy exploring! 🎉

🚉 Have you visited any unique train spots or participated in memorable train events? Share your experiences with us! What’s your favorite train ride or model set? Tell us why it stands out to you!

05/19/2026

Explore the railroading world with us! Visit our library or browse online to discover a vast collection of railroad related books and resources. Whether you're a historian, model train fan, or just curious, you'll find something special here.

https://f.mtr.cool/jyqpaycfvy

05/19/2026

This evening is a great time to come see some trains! We are open 5-8pm today.
See you soon!

05/18/2026

What could this be?????

This is a track relay made by the Union Switch & Signal Company with a last patent date of June 25 1912. This relay would "trip" when the track voltage dropped by 0.2 of a volt. . They control signals, activate crossing gates, and ensure safety by defaulting to a "occupied" state if power fails or rails break, preventing collisions.

Last serviced at the San Jose Signal shops November 2, 1956 by signalman Max Renner.