Manager’s Note
I started here with County Donegal Railway Restoration CLG on the 3rd Jan 2018. It was very exciting for me to think that I was about to play a part in what is ‘The History of the Donegal Railway Restoration project’. In setting out the plans for the future it’s important to look back at our past to appreciate the work that has been undertaken to date and to build on lessons learned to draft a map for the future.
In doing this I put a call out for ‘an account’ of the project and one very kind gentleman came forward with the information that follows. It is important to note that this is one individual’s account and as we all know we each hold a personal interpretation and understanding of any event so for those of you that were involved, your account may be a little different or a lot different… In terms of our vision, it remains the same as twenty years ago ‘to get a section of track operational’ and additions include:
- Improvements to the station house museum to make it more interactive and attractive to a wider audience
- get ourselves firmly on the map as an interesting and enjoyable wet weather visitor experience building on the success of the Wild Atlantic Way Initiative
- become a place of interest for locals, appreciated and supported by local communities
- Create links with others to maximise resources and ensure a comprehensive sustainable offering
I hope you will choose to get involved in making history with us as we begin the next chapter in the ‘Donegal Railway Restoration Project’.
 Sincerely,
Donna Maskery
Manager, Co. Donegal Railway Restoration CLG
[email protected]
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One Account of the Donegal Railway Restoration Project 1990 – 2018
It all began in November 1990 when Joe Carroll, a Dubliner working in the fishing industry in Donegal sought employment opportunities outside the fishing trade. The local FÁS officer suggested he carry out some historical research into the County Donegal Railway. This led Joe to investigate the possibility of restoring a suitable length of track for steam train operations. A public meeting to assess local interest attracted some 60 people and from this the South Donegal Railway Restoration Society was formed in January 1991….
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Like any non-profit we are always in need of funds to restore, fundraise and just keep the lights on! So please consider a donation today…
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Charity Gala Fashion Show & Afternoon tea at Harvey’s Point Hotel
Proceeds in aid of Cancer Care West and County Donegal Railway Restoration CLG
Sunday 25th Feb 2018 raised €1890 of some much-needed funds for improvement works at the Old Station House
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This event in support of a local National School saw over 300 visitors to the centre in 1 day!
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| Beautiful Handcrafted planters made by our talented museum staff!
€30 each OR 2 for €50
(pick up only)
Call +353 (0)74 972 2655 to order yours today! |
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Making Connections
We are linking with individuals and organisations to improve awareness of our offering, identify opportunities for joint working and lever any support that might be available.
Meetings having included; our landlord Bus Eireann, Failte Ireland, Donegal Tourism, various departments of Donegal County Council, Donegal Local Development Company, Councillors and Ministers, Donegal Business Focus Group, The Community Chamber, Donegal Town Mayor, The Waterbus, our neighbours; The St John Bosco centre and the Donegal Town Mart. There are also meeting scheduled with Fintown railway and the Bluestack centre in Drimarone and other railway museums in the coming weeks.
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Events and fundraising
We have contacted LYIT and Sligo IT to discuss a project that will scope out the potential for the outside space at the museum and the rolling stock (restored and potential to be restored)
Submission to Rural Development Programme (LEADER) 2014 – 2020 to look at the feasibility of a number of options for the museum e.g. restoration of a carriage as a multi-use facility, the introduction of a ‘Railway café’, glamping or the introduction of a number of interactive elements to the museum. On the 19th February, we received confirmation that our Expression of interest is eligible in principle and we now move to complete a full application
We have applied to the Community Heritage council for funding to produce ‘Authentic Donegal Railway stories’ and the manager has met with the old station master from Donegal Town who resides locally.
Events scheduled for 2018 includes;
- Ongoing Guided Tours for schools and tour groups
- 17th March We have secured a space to take part in the St Patricks day parade this year and we will be hosting family entertainment in the museum on the day,
- April Schools competition in with a presentation and display of art at the museum
- Sunday 1st April Charity Music Nigh
- 3 May Bealtaine festival for older people (3rd May)
- Easter week at the museum will include activities and entertainment
- 17 July Vintage car and tractor run
- TBA Motorbike Run – Date to be announced –
- July Hoe-Down/4th July Celebration
- Holiday Draw – Date TBC
Keep posted on event details on our Facebook page and on our website here.
Other works in progress…
Sales and Merchandise
We are undertaking a full inventory and creating a ‘shop space’ within the museum. The aim is to have this up and running for the summer.
Marketing and communications
We are working on an integrated marketing and communications plan and we are in the process of developing relationships with print, radio and online sources. We will be setting targets for work in these areas and will continuously monitor and review progress.
Print Coverage Jan/Feb 2018
Donegal Town News, Wednesday the 12th January 2018
Feature and pic Donegal Democrat, Tuesday the 16th January 2018. Feature and pic The Railway Magazine, Feb 2018 edition
Expenditures This Month:
(outside normal running costs)
Material for planters – €100
Fire extinguishers & Training (Compulsory) – €640.00
Membership
A full membership review is underway and will include: cleaning membership database, researching other museum offerings and developing a plan to improve the benefits and communications to our existing members as well as attract new members.If you have any comments, questions or suggestions about memberships please contact Donna via email or phone.
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