Steam Engine or Powerhouse Operator

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Living history, vital to the Sierra, is in danger of coming to an end!

The Museum of the Sierra in Shaver Lake is the only place in the world that visitors by see a working steam donkey (early 1900’s steam engine used for logging) and an operational hydro-electric powerplant. Both these items are representative of early technology that transformed and built an early California. These fantastically unique, working relics from of a bygone era are operated by our dedicated volunteers.

Live demos of 19th c. logging techniques and hydroelectric power generation are at the core of our summer season. We need a few good men and women to undertake the training necessary to run these exhibits safely and knowledgeably. It’s hands-on, old-school, maybe even a little dirty - but oh so rewarding for those who master the technologies that came to define the economic life of our Central Sierra. Operating these exhibits will garner the gratitude of thousands of visitors a year along with instilling a great sense of pride in any volunteer that participates,

If this sounds like you, give us a call at 841-4478 or email CSHS@SIERRAHISTORICAL.org. We’ll introduce you to our Steam Donkey and Powerhouse experts. They’ll be happy to answer any questions you may have.

We have a large, running steam engine and we are looking for volunteers to help keep the tradition alive! Our current operators want to pass on their skills and knowledge to the next generation. We only run the engine a few days a year so you would have to drive to our museum for training and exhibition days.

Feel the roar of an antique steam engine and feel tradition and history enliven your senses.