Louisiana Steam Train Association / Garyville Timbermill Joint Venture
Located in the former Headquarters building of the Lyons Lumber Company and the Garyville Northern Railroad, the Garyville Timbermill Museum is dedicated to preserving the
history and culture of Garyville. This location is significant as it was the nerve center of these operations, making it the perfect place to house the museum.
Lyons Lumber Company was founded in 1903 and soon became an industry titan with one of the region’s largest state-of-the-art lumber mills. However, the Garyville Northern Railroad, often overlooked, played a vital lifeline for the community, facilitating the transport of lumber and serving as a passenger and mail train.
The Louisiana Steam Train Association and the Garyville Timbermill Museum have combined forces in a new Joint Venture. Their shared mission is to restore the museum building to its former glory, preserving the original architecture while incorporating modern amenities to enhance the visitor experience. As part of this effort, design work has begun on a new home for SP745 and her vintage railcars.
RJ serves on the Timbermill board and the local Historical Planning Commission, demonstrating his dedication and passion for the community. He played a key role in securing over $4 million in funding to refurbish the timbermill and relocate LASTA rail operations to Garyville.
As a licensed Louisiana General Contractor, RJ is the Executive Vice President of a national field services company that specializes in property preservation services. He holds a degree in construction management from Louisiana State University.
Matt became involved with LASTA in late 2004 when he learned about SP745’s and its crew’s radio troubles during a test run of the locomotive. Matt was successful in solving SP745’s radio equipment issues prior to the Bicentennial trip. Since then, he has continued to work on expanding and improving LASTA’s communication systems. Matt also helps maintain various electrical and electronic systems around the yard.
Matt currently works in the telecommunications industry, providing technical services for broadcast and the wireless data industry.
As a long-time volunteer and board member, Colin actively participates in projects focusing on local development and historic preservation, showcasing his dedication and passion for these initiatives. He was instrumental in contacting LASTA and laying the groundwork for the new joint venture.
Colin is a Business Development Manager at a prominent local restoration and construction company. His background in planning and estimating, combined with his industry knowledge, allows him to identify new business opportunities, forge strategic partnerships, and cultivate long-term relationships.
Mr. Berg's practice includes a wide variety of commercial litigation. He represents individual and institutional investors, public pension funds, and hedge funds in investment disputes with investment banks, investment advisors, and brokerage firms.
Mr. Berg also counsels businesses and individuals on their legal rights to navigate disputes without litigation. In addition to his commercial litigation practice, Mr. Berg has represented property owners in insurance claims seeking recovery of property damage and loss of business income.
Dottie and her staff provide a broad spectrum of services, from creative event planning of multi-location conferences and summits, multi-day extravaganzas, transportation, and registration to total meeting management. Dottie serves on numerous boards, associations, corporations, government agencies, and non-profit organizations. Dottie was a significant event planner for the most recent Republican National Convention held in New Orleans, manages the annual Bayou Classic and manages the efforts of numerous other clients.
University of New Orleans (UNO) history professor John Fitzmorris supports LASTA and SP-745. He is working to develop a new railroad job training program with Bill Langkopp and a local junior college. John recently assisted with our historic place designation and is helping to plan exhibits for the future museum site.