Reconstruction at the railroad museum: charity event
More than three months after the devastating fire in the historical railroad and technology museum in Schwerin, the members of the museum association are planning a gradual reopening. At weekends and sometimes even after work, they are working together in the museum, said association spokesman Klaus-Dieter Voß. A new electrical system, for example, has already been installed. Exhibits, tools, machines and materials have been recovered, cleaned and stored. "We have already made a lot of progress," reported Voß.
However, the association is concerned about the roof, most of which has collapsed. Shortly after the fire, two insurance experts were on site, said Voß. However, the insurance company had not yet decided on the settlement of the claim. He estimates that at least a high six-figure sum will be due for the reconstruction of the roof. The association would not be able to cope with this alone, even if there had been a great willingness to donate after the fire. Every time it rains, water penetrates the building, causing further damage.
The association plans to open at least the part of the museum that was not damaged in the fire for a charity event at the end of November. The historic vehicles will be on display, which fortunately are largely undamaged. There will also be a souvenir sale and catering in the historic railroad carriage. "Above all, we want to show that we still exist," said Voß.
The longer-term wish is to at least repair the roof area above the vehicle hall "as quickly as possible". "We hope that we will then be able to reopen part of the museum by the end of 2024," said Voß. He expects the entire reconstruction to take at least five years.
The major fire broke out in July, presumably as a result of a technical defect in a washing machine. According to the association, large parts of the roof as well as the signal box and telecommunications technology on display, the model railway layout and almost the entire archive were destroyed.
During their leisure time and on weekends, the museum association members continue to work on the reconstruction, focusing on the damaged roof area. Despite the challenges, they look forward to opening a part of the museum for a charity event, providing an opportunity for the public to visit and support the cause, as well as enjoying souvenirs and catering in the historic railroad carriage.
Source: www.dpa.com
