Havana, Cuba

Havana's Steam Engine Museum

Cuba's historical trains remind natives of their country's sugary sweet past.

Cuba’s railway system has been a source of historical significance for the country, and the locomotive museum seated beside the Central Railroad Station is a testament to its legacy. In the 19th century, Cuba was the world’s leader in sugar production, and was the first of the Latin American countries to have a railroad - just after the US, Great Britain, Belgium, and Germany.

The outdoor steam engine museum was opened in 2009 in the Historic District of Havana, and displays a selection of remaining steam engines built by the American Baldwin Locomotive Works Company. Included is the locomotive 1112, which is the third oldest machine preserved in Cuba, and was used the film “Jose Marti,” directed by filmmaker, Fernando Perez.

The museum’s opening marked the 172nd anniversary of Cuba’s first railway travel from Havana to Bejucal on November 19th, 1837, and the 490th anniversary of the founding of the town San Cristobal. Some of the locomotives are still in their original conditions, whereas some have been restored and renovated.

Adapted with permission from Exploguide.com dedicated to travelers looking for alternative and off the beaten track travel.