Steamboat Pilot & Today

Steamboat Springs — David Moffat had dreams of building a railroad from Denver to Salt Lake City, but his efforts fell short just outside of Craig.

For the residents of South Routt County, his efforts laid the track for their future.

"If it wasn't for him, none of us would be here," said Phippsburg resident and retired railroader Dutch Ebaugh.

On Saturday, Phippsburg residents and the Historical Society of Oak Creek and Phippsburg will dedicate a railroad display at the Phippsburg Community Park to remember Moffat and the hundreds of men who made a livelihood working on the railroad.

"This is for the people," Ebaugh said. "It's to remember our history."

Oak Creek historian Mike Yurich said Saturday's dedication is the culmination of several years of work.

"We've built the display in the back of the park, and it's similar to the Miner's Wall in Oak Creek, but much, much nicer," Yurich said.

The display features about 270 names and the job titles of former and current railroad employees as well as photos and history of the railroad and Phippsburg, he said. Future names likely will be added after Saturday's dedication.

"It's an ongoing project," Yurich said.

"When the railroad came through here, it brought coal as well as a lot of tourists from Denver," he said. "Almost everyone who lived or lives in Phippsburg was involved in the railroad. It really developed this area."

Saturday's events include three speeches, a catered luncheon at noon and a ceremonial ribbon cutting.

"This display is something I've wanted to do to recognize the history of Phippsburg for a long time," Yurich said. "Phippsburg is a part of the historical society, they're part of us."

Yurich and Ebaugh expect retired railroaders from Denver and Grand Junction to attend the dedication and hope Routt County's residents will make the trip as well.

"Come and visit and share some stories related to the railroad and living in Phippsburg with us," Yurich said.

"I'm excited to see who comes," Ebaugh added.

- To reach Alexis DeLaCruz, call 871-4234 or e-mail adelacruz@steamboatpilot.com