Once upon a time, trains were the undisputed kings of transit. Today, we stand before the Museo de los Ferrocarrileros. This museum safeguards the historical memory of the railway workers’ union. The Museo de los Ferrocarrileros tells a tale of Mexico’s railways. It recalls their strikes and struggles. The museum also commemorates its heroes, prisoners, and the fallen.
Inaugurated in 2006, the Museo de los Ferrocarrileros occupies the former La Villa station. The station was built in 1907. It stands on land that was once part of the Hacienda de Santa Ana de Aragón. From here, trains departed from Mexico City towards Veracruz.
The building itself is a sight to behold. Its roof features a stone and iron vault constructed with railway tracks. A stone balustrade adorns its exterior. Inside the Museo de los Ferrocarrileros, there are three halls. These halls host diverse temporary exhibitions.
Although the Museo de los Ferrocarrileros doesn’t possess its own collection, it showcases materials from various sources. These include the Centro Nacional para la Preservación del Patrimonio Cultural Ferrocarrilero. Also included is the Museo Nacional de los Ferrocarriles Mexicanos. Photographs from the Centro de Estudios del Movimiento Obrero y Socialista are on display as well.
One of the Museo de los Ferrocarrileros’s main attractions is the “Sin Fuego” locomotive. This “fireless” engine is unique in Mexico. The Davenport Locomotive Works in the USA built it. PEMEX acquired it in the 1940s. It operated at the Azcapotzalco refinery. It moved fuel tank cars. It ceased operations in the 1990s. PEMEX donated it to the museum in 2014.
Unlike traditional steam engines, the “Sin Fuego” doesn’t have a firebox. An external electric generator produced its steam. Hence the name “sin fuego” meaning “without fire”.
The Museo de los Ferrocarrileros is more than just a static display. It hosts a range of activities. There are lectures, book presentations, and concerts. You can enjoy plays, workshops, and puppet shows. Dance performances and guided tours are available too. A film club screens railway-related movies every Saturday. The museum also offers a documentation center. It contains books, documents, plans, and recordings.
Salvador Zarco is the director of the Museo de los Ferrocarrileros. He is a former railway worker. He worked as an electrical mechanic. His stories are invaluable especially when shared over a fruit platter.
The Museo de los Ferrocarrileros stands as a reminder. It recalls the glory days of rail transport in Mexico. It connects us to the past. It also offers a space for reflection and celebration. It is a place to remember the vital role trains played in shaping the nation.
So, as you leave the Museo de los Ferrocarrileros, remember the echoes of the trains. Think of the workers. Carry with you a piece of Mexican history.