Marion’s Historic Caboose Returns: A Look At Draper Park’s Makeover

After a year-long makeover, the charming caboose that once graced City Square Park is ready to make a grand return! On Tuesday morning, August 27, the caboose will hitch a ride back to Marion and find its new home along the Grant Wood Trail and 31st Street.

When is the big move?

The big move kicks off around 8 a.m. when the caboose will be lovingly placed at its new spot near the Grant Wood Trail, just south of the American Legion.

The caboose has undergone quite the transformation thanks to a contract with Wabtec Corp. More than 40% of its exterior was replaced due to severe corrosion, and it’s now sporting a fresh coat of Milwaukee Road orange and shiny new decals.

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This revamped caboose will be the star attraction in Draper Park, a brand-new pocket park celebrating Marion’s rich railroad heritage. The Grant Wood Trail, which follows an old railroad right-of-way, links several Marion parks, including Waldo’s Rock Park, City Square Park, and Thomas Park. The park is designed to educate locals about Marion’s railroad past, provide a fun new destination along the trail, and spruce up the City’s existing properties.

Where did Draper Park get its name?

Draper Park is named in honor of former Councilmember Paul Draper, a devoted advocate for Marion’s progress. Draper, who served on the Civil Service Commission for 25 years and on the City Council from 2012 to 2020, was a local history enthusiast and champion of preserving Marion’s heritage. He played a key role in saving and relocating the depot back in the late '80s and was a longtime fixture in the Marion business and civic community. Draper passed away in February 2020.

Is there more coming to the park?

Marion-based Rathje Construction is busy at work creating the new park. Once the caboose is settled in, they’ll add a plaza area and other railroad-themed artifacts. Expect Draper Park to be up and running by later this fall, adding a delightful new chapter to Marion’s history!