LASTA’s Upcoming Move: What You Need to Know
What’s the Story Behind the New Home Rumors?
Over the past few years, LASTA has been on a quest to find a new home for our operations. Our search has taken us from Algiers, near the birthplace of SP 745, to the French Quarter, the streets of Slidell, and the community of Westwego.
At the same time, conversations began between the Garyville Timbermill Museum and our board about LASTA relocating to Garyville, Louisiana, just upriver from our current home. The museum itself carries a rich legacy as the former headquarters of the Lyon Lumber Company and the Garyville Northern Railroad.
By late 2023, LASTA and GTM joined forces in an exciting partnership. Together, we rallied support to fund crucial repairs to the museum after Hurricane Ida and took the first steps toward creating a new home for SP 745 and her vintage railcars.
In December 2025, we began our move from the Ochsner yard, with groundwork starting in Garyville. Stay tuned here and on our social media for the latest updates on our journey to Garyville and the exciting rebuild of 745.
Latest News!
The Vision of the Garyville Northern Railroad
This video demonstrates our vision for the Garyville Northern Railroad! With the support of our memb…
Preserving the Past, Building the Future: A New Engine House for Garyville
We’re excited to announce the development of a new engine house, designed to support the maintenance…
Construction Progress: First Containers Arrive at new Railyard
Progress is underway at the @GaryvilleTimbermillMuseum! The first set of shipping containers has arr…
Getting Our Rail Equipment Ready to Roll
Inspection of our rail equipment is one of the many tasks we must complete before we move. Our crew …
Progress Update: SP 745 Moves Closer to Rebuild
Over the past several months, much of our focus has been dedicated to relocating our equipment from …
Explore Garyville’s Roots: Trains, Timber, and Everyday Life
As we prepare the site and restore the historic museum building, we’re also planning a series of exh…
💡 How YOU Can Help 💡
💵 DONATE – We’re on a mission but we still need your help! Additional funds are required to cover significant moving costs, equipment relocation, and site preparation. To donate, click the link below or contact us for more information about sponsorship opportunities. Together, we can preserve this unique piece of history for future generations!
👉 JOIN – Your membership is a key part of our mission. By supporting the preservation of SP 745 and the rest of our historic rail collection, you and your family will play a pivotal role in preserving a bygone era of rail travel. Your membership is a direct contribution to our cause, making you an integral part of our journey.
🛠️ VOLUNTEER – We’re always looking for help at the yard — whether you have railroad experience or just a willingness to lend a hand. We have a dedicated team of volunteers working tirelessly on the relocation and our other vital projects. Any help is welcome in the coming months!