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BECOME A VOLUNTEER MEMBER

We’d love to have you join our all-volunteer crew! All operations of the Hocking Valley Scenic Railway are handled entirely by volunteers, which has been the case since the railroad’s humble beginnings in 1972. To be considered for membership, you must first download and complete the membership application.

Membership with us provides great opportunities to become involved in the railroad–as much time as you can afford to give. These opportunities include restoration and maintenance of equipment, train operations, and more! Many of our volunteers wear multiple “hats” so it’s not unusual to see our president or other officers right out there on track work or helping on the train! And any member that displays active participation in the railroad through the year can run for any available elected office the following year! Our volunteer members are as diverse as one can imagine, many having no prior professional railroading experience. However, we do have some retired railroaders that help out throughout the railroad, giving guidance and help as needed.

APPLY TODAY!

Like many other volunteer organizations, we have many needs including:

  • Maintenance-of-Way (Track Maintenance)
  • Train Crew
  • Locomotive & Equipment Maintenance
  • Station Personnel
  • Non-Railroading Skills

We only have one class of membership, the cost of which is just $20 per year. Members, who must be at least 18 years old, are then entitled to participate in train operations, equipment and track maintenance, and equipment restorations. Members also receive our bi-monthly newsletter The Valley Flyer, a discount on gift shop items, and an invitation to all membership functions (annual meeting, etc.).

You don’t have to live in the Nelsonville area to help! We have members mainly from the Columbus area, with some traveling from as far away as Bellefontaine, Ohio, and Charleston, West Virginia! We also have members from across the United States who support our organization simply by sending in their $20 and keeping up with the activities we have going on. Even if you aren’t able to physically help us due to distance or otherwise, we truly appreciate your financial support (and since we are a 501(c)3 non-profit organization, all donations beyond membership dues are tax-deductible)! We are entirely self-funded mainly through ticket sales, as well as generous outside donations.