Seashore Trolley Museum Launches Fundraiser for Historic Golden Chariot Restoration
Seashore Trolley Museum is conducting a fundraising campaign on GivingTuesday, December 3, 2025, to support restoration work on the Montreal Tramways Golden Chariot Observation Car #2. The museum has raised $50,164.32 toward a $100,000 goal to replace the vehicle's cast iron wheelsets with steel wheels, a necessary repair before the trolley can return to operation. Strasburg Railroad's Mechanical Shop is currently assessing the required work, with completion anticipated by spring 2026. The Golden Chariot, built in 1906, is a rare sightseeing car with theater-style seating and distinctive brass beaver arches. It has been part of the museum's operating fleet but has been out of service since 2020 due to mechanical issues. The campaign offers donor incentives including gift cards and behind-the-scenes tours.
Key facts
- Seashore Trolley Museum is fundraising $100,000 for Golden Chariot restoration
- The museum has raised $50,164.32 as of December 2025
- Strasburg Railroad is assessing the repair needs with work expected by spring 2026
- The Golden Chariot is a 1906 Montreal Tramways observation car with unique design features
- The vehicle has been out of service since 2020 due to worn wheelsets
Entities
Institutions
- Seashore Trolley Museum
- Strasburg Railroad
- Montreal Tramways
- Montreal Street Railway
- Montreal Transportation Commission
- Exporail
- Connecticut Trolley Museum
- U.S. Institute of Museum Services
Locations
- Montreal
- East Windsor, CT