The Del Ray Little Red Caboose

Built in 1912 and donated in 1973, the Little Red Caboose has been part of Del Ray's identity for over half a century. In the 70s, the community secured the addition of the Caboose to the Mount Vernon Community School (MVCS) as an innovative solution to needing additional learning spaces and it became a classroom like no other. And for decades, thousands of kids climbed into that little red caboose to read, learn, and imagine.​

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The Little Red Caboose has been closed for years. While the structure still stands on its original rails at MVCS, decades of weather and deferred maintenance have taken a significant toll. Restoring it isn't just cosmetic — it requires a thorough, professional assessment and a proper restoration plan handled by experts in historic rail preservation. The goal is a fully restored caboose that's safe, accessible, and open for students, families, and community events for decades to come.

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The Caboose Fund is a nonprofit formed by Del Ray neighbors — parents, longtime residents, and history lovers — dedicated to bringing the caboose back to life, improving the park area around the caboose, and ensuring afterschool opportunities for MVCS students.

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The Del Ray House & Garden Tour is proud to support The Caboose Fund this year.