OUR JOURNEY THROUGH TIME
LEGACY OF TRADITION
Established in 1939 near Brown Road and Natural Bridge, the WF&P has been a cherished family attraction in Glencoe (Wildwood), Missouri since 1961. Offering a scenic two-mile ride along the Meramec River, the 12-inch gauge live steam railroad takes you on a 40-minute round trip back in time.
OUR MISSION
At the Wabash Frisco & Pacific, our mission is to preserve the legacy of steam locomotives, which played a significant role in building the United States. For us, our operations are about so much more than just selling tickets for train rides. Aside from having fun, we also want to educate the community about the rich railroad history in Missouri. With that, we aim to bring the joy of steam locomotives to families in the area. Since we are a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, every penny we raise goes back into maintaining the locomotives and infrastructure. Join us for an unforgettable journey through history!
OUR HISTORY
The Wabash Frisco & Pacific Railroad
The story of the Wabash Frisco and Pacific Railroad dates back to 1939, when a group of railway enthusiasts acquired a 12-inch gauge steam locomotive (Engine #171), and the use of a 30 acre estate located on the southeast corner of Brown Road and Natural Bridge. The railroad developed to the point where it had a half mile of track, four steam locomotives, a telegraph system, a telephone communication system between stations, and an electric-pneumatic signal system. Trains were operated by regulation timetables, and train orders governed them just as our standard gauge counterparts.
Because of rising land values adjacent to St. Louis' Lambert Airport, the railroad was forced to move, and its last run was conducted on July 19, 1959. The railroad, and all its equipment, was put into storage for two years while the association looked for a new home.
Eventually, the WF&P relocated to Glencoe, Missouri (Wildwood) in 1961, where much of the WF&P was rebuilt on top of and along the recently abandoned Missouri Pacific Railroad right-of-way.
Since that time, we have laid more than a mile of track, built numerous buildings, including the car barn in 1976, and the roundhouse in 1992. We are constantly in the process of rebuilding locomotives, cars, expanding track length, and maintaining all of the facilities necessary for the operation of the railroad.
Throughout our eighty-five year history, we have always relied on generous donations from our supporters and passengers, as well as the dedication of our volunteers! Consider coming to ride, or join the association here to ensure the future of this hidden gem.
