Uniting History and Heritage at the Nevada State Railroad Museum

History of the Virginia & Truckee Combine Passenger Car

The original V&T sold this car to MGM Studios in 1947. It then became a familiar sight in films like “Cimarron” and “The Man Who Shot Liberty Vance.” Eventually, in 1970, it was auctioned to John D. Bentley of Pasadena, Calif. Later, it was donated to the Orange Empire Railway Museum (now Southern California Railway Museum). The journey of this car has been a fascinating one, with its presence in different locations and on the silver screen.

After decades away from Nevada, Car 20 returned home on December 12. The sight of V&T 4-6-0 25 firing up and switching the car into the shop was a momentous occasion. It was the first time since the 1940s that the locomotive and car had been together, symbolizing the reunion of a significant part of Nevada's railroad history.

Significance of the Acquisition

As NSRM Curator of History Adam Michalski pointed out, since it was one of the few remaining Virginia & Truckee pieces likely to be available for acquisition, returning No. 20 back to Nevada made perfect sense. The museum recognizes the importance of preserving and showcasing such historical artifacts. By adding this car to their collection, they are not only enriching their exhibits but also providing a tangible connection to the past for visitors.

The museum is grateful for the assistance received from the SCRM, the Friends of the Nevada State Railroad Museum, and the Nevada Board of Museums and History. Their support has made the return of No. 20 possible and has contributed to the growth and preservation of Nevada's railroad heritage.

Preserving Railroad History

The acquisition of Car 20 is a testament to the Nevada State Railroad Museum's commitment to preserving and sharing the history of Nevada's railroad industry. This car represents a bygone era when railroads played a crucial role in the development of the state. By housing it in their museum, they are ensuring that future generations can learn about and appreciate the significance of these early rail systems.

Visitors to the museum will now have the opportunity to see this historic car up close and gain a deeper understanding of the role that railroads have played in Nevada's history. It serves as a reminder of the ingenuity and hard work of those who built and operated the railroads and the impact they had on the state.