Dedicated Rail Fan Matthias Langen To Save Crumbling Signal Box from Oblivion
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Passionate rail buff prevents imminent destruction of deteriorating signaling station - Rail enthusiast maintaining neglected railway track section
Matthias Langen (23), a passionate rail fan and a locomotive driver, is on a mission to preserve and refurbish an old signal box teetering on the brink of demolition in the picturesque Northern Black Forest. Calling it a "wonder," he stands before the 1880s structure in Calw, once controlling the tracks, inspired and determined.
The top half of this historic signal box, numbered 2, will be lifted and transported over the tracks by crane in the forthcoming week and then shifted to a parking lot. Langen has been advocating for its preservation with both Deutsche Bahn and the Calw city council.
Recent spotlight was cast upon the signal box when Deutsche Bahn recruited a security team to guard it day and night, concerned it may tumble onto the tracks.
Financial Ambitions
The future of the signal box following its relocation remains uncertain, hinging on whether Langen receives assistance from skilled artisans or fundraising success, he shared. The estimated cost is approximately 100,000 euros. "A bit of elbow grease is needed," Langen said, optimistic that public support will enable preserving this historical heritage for future generations.
However, Langen is already convinced that the restoration and maintenance will be a long-term project. "I can't do this alone. I still have a job," said the 23-year-old, who has just completed his locomotive driver training and now operates regional trains from Arverio in the southwest.
- Signal box 2
- Historical Structure
- Preservation Efforts
- Calw
- German Railways
- Future Generations
With limited information on the current status of Matthias Langen's preservation and renovation endeavor for the Calw signal box, it may be necessary to consult local heritage groups or regional news outlets, or connect with Matthias Langen himself for latest updates on his project.
- Matthias Langen's aspiration to restore the historic signal box in Calw includes engaging skilled artisans and securing funds, as the estimated cost is approximately 100,000 euros, in an effort to preserve the structure for future generations.
- In his quest to save the signal box, Matthias Langen is hopeful that public support will enable the renovation of the home-and-garden-like structure, which shares a unique part of the community's railway history.
