By Justin Franz 

The Oregon Rail Heritage Foundation, the non-profit tasked with caring for Portland’s three city-owned steam locomotives, announced last week that it was acquiring the Oregon Pacific Railroad’s East Portland Division. 

The sale of the 5-mile line between Portland and Milwaukie to ORHF is expected to be complete by 2026. It does not include OPR’s other operation, the former Southern Pacific Molalla Branch between Canby and Liberal, Ore. 

ORHF operates the Oregon Rail Heritage Center in Portland, home to Southern Pacific 4-8-4 4449; Spokane, Portland & Seattle 4-8-4 700; Oregon Railroad & Navigation 4-6-2 197; and several other historic pieces of equipment. Officials said the acquisition would allow ORHF to increase its excursion operation dramatically; for years the non-profit has operated a series of successful holiday trains and in the last few years has run more excursions during the summer and fall. The Oregon Pacific was founded in the 1990s by local businessman and railroader Dick Samuels and included the remains of the former Portland Traction Co. 

“Acquiring the Oregon Pacific Railroad honors Dick Samuels’ remarkable legacy while securing a permanent future for rail excursions, preservation, and education in Oregon,” said ORHF President Rick Franklin. “This transformative step enables us to connect with our community in deeper, more impactful ways, bringing history to life through expanded excursions and enriched volunteer opportunities. Most importantly, it ensures that future generations will have the chance to experience and appreciate the rich rail heritage that shaped our region.”