The Stray Who Stayed

Dirt, the Nevada Northern Railway cat, is a forever ambassador for the preservation of Nevada's steam railroading heritage. Born as a stray in the engine house of the East Ely Railroad, Dirt was never an ordinary cat. Dirt's mom and her other kittens left, but Dirt was warmly embraced by the entire Nevada Northern Railway family.

A Very Unique Coat

Dirt loved rolling in the dirt and climbing on trains. This dyed his orange and white coat a unique coal color, making it look like he was always coming off a long day working on a locomotive. His railway-appropriate appearance was just the start of what made him special.

The Railway's Beloved Cat

With his gruff and gritty personality, Dirt seemed to invoke the spirits of railroaders past. He earned the affection of the museum's crew and visitors alike. And when an orange kitten appeared in 2020, Dirt took him under his wing, preparing him for the responsibilities of the Railway museum. That cat was named Dirt Junior, or DJ for short.

An Iconic Duo

Together, Dirt and DJ became an iconic duo, helping the Railway museum reach and educate a whole new audience. Through Dollars For DIRT, a fund initiated because of Dirt's popularity, the Nevada Northern Railway Museum often garnered more donations than any other fundraising event.

A Forever Legacy

Dirt lived a remarkably full, vibrant, and impactful life. While he passed away at the age of 15 earlier this year, his spirit and influence remain. A tribute to Dirt is planned for May 28th. Plans to cement his legacy include the installation of two life-size bronze Dirt statues, allowing him to forever look over the train yard. As Dirt's pawprints continue to mark the railway, DJ ensures that his mentor's legacy lives on.