Volunteer and Serve

The North Carolina Railway Museum and New Hope Valley Railway are 100% operated by member volunteers. There are opportunities for people with all kinds of backgrounds and skill sets to help. In addition to crews who operate and maintain the train we can always use artists, carpenters, curators, docents, researchers, gardeners, storytellers, attorneys, accountants and shopkeepers (just to name a few) to keep the Triangle’s Train operating smoothly.

We have volunteers who are dedicated to the Garden Railway, Museum and education aspects, facilities and infrastructure, as well as the administration and marketing. Don’t have any of these skills but want to learn? Sometimes a friendly hand is all that is needed and we encourage members to shadow other members to learn new skills. As you work to maintain and improve the NCRM and NHVR with fellow volunteers, you have the opportunity to share stories and learn about the history and heritage of the railroad. The North Carolina Railway Museum does not and shall not discriminate on the basis of race, sex, color, religion (creed), gender, gender expression, age, national origin (ancestry), disability, marital status, sexual orientation, or military status, in any of its activities or operations. These activities include, but are not limited to, hiring and firing of staff, selection of volunteers and vendors, and provision of services. We are committed to providing an inclusive and welcoming environment for all members of our staff, volunteers, subcontractors, vendors, customers, visitors, and our community at large.

Volunteers are required to have a minimum of 18 years of age and have applied for membership to the NC Railway Museum. Work sessions are held at Bonsal every Wednesday, Saturday (and most Sundays) from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. (with seasonal adjustments) all year round. There is always plenty of work, camaraderie and fun to be had.

NCRM Membership Application

NCRM Bylaws

To apply for membership – please complete an application from the railroad office during a work session OR you may print the two page PDF from the link above and return via USPS mail with check to:

North Carolina Railway Museum
Membership Chairman
Post Office Box 40
New Hill, NC 27562-0040

In 2018 – NCRM approved a plan for “Youth Rail Crew” members – with the aim of getting youth involved safely with our passion for trains and learning and teaching the history railroads made locally, regionally, and globally. If you are a youth in the applicable age range, with accompanying parental permission you may apply to join the Youth Rail Crew.

NCRM Youth Member Application

NCRM Youth Rail Crew Charter (aka Constitution)

Volunteer at NC State Fairgrounds

Image of volunteers working on steam engine wheel set

Work on Steam Engine #17

Image of rail car host

Car Host

Image of Museum and souvenir store

Museum and souvenir shop volunteers

Decorating for the Holidays

Taking care of history