The Rochester & Genesee Valley Railroad Museum in Rush, N.Y., is beginning an important effort to return Eastman Kodak No. 6 to public display, and we need your help to get started. An 80-ton diesel switcher built by General Electric in 1946, No. 6 was the first diesel locomotive to operate at Kodak Park, marking a significant transition in how one of Rochester’s most important industries moved materials throughout its vast facility. In 1981, it became the first locomotive donated to the museum, helping to establish the foundation of our collection. Although No. 6 is now retired from operation, it remains an important part of Rochester’s industrial history and the story of our museum.

Our goal this year is to repaint No. 6 in a special red, white, and blue scheme as part of the America 250 celebration, connecting this important artifact with a broader national milestone. Once complete, No. 6 will again be on public display, helping to tell the story of Rochester’s rich railroading heritage.

The first phase of this project focuses on stabilizing and protecting the locomotive from further deterioration. We are seeking to raise $5,000 to complete necessary repairs to the cab, including metal work around the window frames, installation of new gaskets, and replacement of the window glazing. This work will make the cab weather-tight, preventing water intrusion and protecting the interior so that additional restoration work can proceed.

We hope to complete this glazing and weatherproofing work during the upcoming summer season. Your support now will allow us to move forward on schedule and ensure that No. 6 is protected as we begin the next phases of restoration.

Your support will help preserve an important piece of Rochester’s transportation and industrial heritage and return it to display for the public to experience. Every contribution, no matter the size, will help move this project forward. The Rochester & Genesee Valley Railroad Museum is New York State’s largest operating railroad museum, home to the state’s largest collection of historic trains.

Thank you for your support!