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SUGARCREEK, Ohio — The Age of Steam Roundhouse Museum announces with deep sadness the passing of Laura Jacobson (Schlabach) on November 18, 2025.

Laura, with her late husband Jerry Joe Jacobson, founded the Jerry and Laura Jacobson Foundation, Inc., which established the Age of Steam Roundhouse Museum in Sugarcreek, Ohio. Laura remained on the Board of Directors until her passing, continuing to lead the nonprofit institution dedicated to the restoration, preservation, and operation of historic steam locomotives for the education, entertainment, and enlightenment of guests.

Laura began her railroading life in 1988 when she married Jerry Joe Jacobson. A known railroad enthusiast. Jerry owned the Ohio Central Railroad and Laura quickly, and easily, took over the task of managing the steam passenger train operations and gift shop in Sugarcreek. Her knowledge and abilities were quickly apparent to Jerry and many times he would concede that the railroad, and ultimately the museum, would never have gotten where it did if Laura had not been there to make it happen. Laura’s passion for rail heritage, steadfast leadership, and unwavering commitment to preserving America’s steam history were instrumental in shaping the museum into the internationally respected organization it is today.

Laura worked tirelessly at the Ohio Central Railroad and at the Age of Steam Roundhouse to ensure that the stories, craftsmanship, and engineering achievements of the steam era were reflected by the museum and would be safeguarded for future generations. Her vision and dedication helped build not only a world-class museum, but a community of enthusiasts, historians, volunteers, and supporters who continue to carry the mission forward.

A public viewing will be held at Smith-Varns Funeral Home in Sugarcreek, Ohio, on November 23 from 1-3 pm and 4-6 pm. A private interment will be held at a later date.

The Age of Steam Roundhouse Museum extends its deepest condolences to Laura’s family, her many friends, and all who were touched by her remarkable life, legacy, and kindness.

SUGARCREEK, Ohio — The Age of Steam Roundhouse Museum is honored to receive the 2025 Significant Achievement Award – Steam from the HeritageRail Alliance for the cosmetic restoration of Bessemer & Lake Erie #643 steam locomotive. This award recognizes the exceptional skill and dedication of our restoration team in preserving and showcasing historic locomotives.

B&LE #643 arrived at the Age of Steam Roundhouse Museum on January 31, 2024. Acquiring this locomotive was a lifelong dream of Jerry Jacobson, who envisioned restoring and displaying it alongside the museum’s other steam locomotives. As the largest locomotive in the museum’s collection, B&LE #643 measures over 108 feet in length, stands more than 16 feet high, and weighs 450 tons without coal and water. With 26 tons of coal and 23,000 gallons of water, the locomotive’s total weight reaches an impressive 572 tons.

“All the staff and volunteers at the Age of Steam Roundhouse Museum greatly appreciate the HeritageRail Alliance for the decision to award this honor for the restoration of No. 643 to its ‘as in service’ appearance for our visitors and future generations.” Said Tim Sposato, Chief Mechanical Officer

 “This vision to see through a window into the past is important for rail-oriented organizations to  help expose the colorful history of railroading history.” Sposato added.

The full cosmetic restoration of #643 was completed in March 2025, and the locomotive is now on public display. The museum’s back shop takes great pride in each restoration project, dedicating extensive hours and expertise to ensure every locomotive receives meticulous care from top to bottom.

For more information about the Age of Steam Roundhouse Museum, visit ageofsteamroundhouse.org and keep up to date with the latest news on Facebook.