Meetings
Next Meeting – July 8, 2026 – 7:00 pm
1130 South Main Street (see map below)
Palmer, Massachusetts 01069
The Shay – More Than a Logging Locomotive
The Shay is a geared steam locomotive cleverly designed for logging and mining operations. Every wheel of the engine is powered using an exposed driveshaft and a beveled gear system for maximum tractive effort. The ingenious design allowed the Shay to handle steep grades and sharp curves that standard steam locomotives could not.
On Wednesday, July 8, Steve Meyer will discuss the variety of assignments handled by Shay locomotives during their sixty-five years of production. He will also discuss HO-scale models of the locomotive, including the new release by Broadway Limited.
This presentation is open to the public.
The Amherst Railway Society meetings, presentations, and special events
The Amherst Railway Society hosts a variety of presentations and special events each month at the Amherst Building in Palmer, Massachusetts. (see map below)
Beginning on January 1, 2024, regular meetings and presentations will be held every month, except February. Meetings are held on the second Wednesday of each month and begin at 7:00 pm. Additional special events are held on other days as well.
Members are notified of any changes in meeting dates, times, or places through the society newsletter. Changes are also announced on this web site, and on the Amherst Railway Society Facebook page.
Amherst Railway Society meetings and special events are open to the public.