CABOOSE NO. 12

The use of cabooses began in the 1830s when railroads housed trainmen in shanties built onto boxcars or flatcars. The caboose provided the train crew with shelter at the rear of the train. The train crew could exit the train for switching or to protect the rear of the train when stopped.

Constructed in 1925, Strasburg Rail Road’s Caboose 12 provides a glimpse of what it may have been like to be a crew member of an early 20th-century steam train. Climb into the cupola seats for a truly unique view of the train. (Note: Cupola seating does require ascending and descending a ladder.)

Caboose 12 has a steel frame with a wood superstructure and is built to specific specifications by the Detroit, Toledo, and Ironton Railroad.

Sstep back in time to the early 20th century and ride the rails of the Strasburg Rail Road — America’s oldest operating railroad — in our historic Caboose No. 12.

The Caboose can comfortably accommodate 10 guests.

Year Built: 1925

Builder: Standard Steel Car Company

Previous RR: Used as Detroit, Toledo, and Ironton RR No. 95.

Arrived at Strasburg: October 1964