The Railyards’ legacy lives on through the people and tools that not only kept its trains running, but helped shape Sacramento’s reputation for innovation. As part of our strategic and creative research, Allis Studio toured the historic buildings on the site, many of which were previously sealed for decades. From paint shops, boiler shops, to machine shops, each space had its own specific purpose, and beneath the layers of dust, we uncovered the tools of the trade and revealed the stories they can tell.
Working with the museum director, we cataloged and labeled selected pieces, identifying their age and function. As the priceless artifacts needed to remain on site, we worked with photographer Ben Kist to bring his studio to the yards to capture their raw beauty. The final images now appear as a digital archive for visitors to experience up close and in incredible detail.
01. Carmen Sign, 1920s
02. Steam Whistle, 1882
03. Conductor's Hat, 1860–1885
04. Land Sign, 1912.
05. Switch Lock, 1870–1885
06. Builders Plates, 1905, 1926
07. Employment Card, 1918–1920
08. Derail Sign, 1970s
09. Reporting Mark Silkscreen, 1950s
10. Gladhand Coupler, 1870s
11. Tool Case, 1915–1958
12. Steam Balanced Valve, 1863
13. Medicine Bottle, 1970
14. Shipping List, 1878
15. Whistle Post, 1900
16. Telegraph Box Drawing, 1877
