Cripple Creek Information Center (Train Car)

The Train Car was built in 1887 as a first class passenger car, complete with a gentleman's smoking area (which is now the office).  There were seats throughout the entire car, gas-lit lights, and a wood stove in the smoking area.  Eventually the car was changed over to electricity.  It was a Midland Terminal train car, and travelled up Highway 67 from Colorado Springs into Cripple Creek.  In the 1920s, the Midland took all its passenger cars, with the exception of 2, and changed them into combo cars.  They cut sliding doors in the sides to allow freight to be loaded onto the cars.  There were still seats for passengers, hence the name "combo."  The Midland ran up to 1949.  On February 6, 1949, the last run of the Midland took place with celebrities such as Lowell Thomas riding the last run.

The Midland either sold or abandoned the car.  When the City of Cripple Creek purchased it in 1995 or 1996, it was sitting (with no wheels) in a field being used as storage.  The City refurbished the car to the tune of about $100,000.

Today the Train Car is lovingly cared for and staffed by the City of Cripple Creek.  Visitors can watch videos relating to the area, can get area maps and brochures, or can request assistance with their Gold Camp vacation planning from the friendly staff.