Ep 23. Astrodome Rail Car

In the latest episode of Strange Inheritance, viewers are taken on a journey to explore the fascinating story behind the Astrodome Rail Car. Located in Houston, Texas, the Astrodome Rail Car is a unique piece of American history that has been passed down through the generations of one family.

The story begins with the Houston Colt .45s, a Major League Baseball team that was founded in 1962. The team was struggling to find a suitable home stadium, and ultimately decided to build the iconic Astrodome. The Astrodome was the first fully air-conditioned indoor sports stadium in the world, and it quickly became a popular destination for sporting and entertainment events.

As construction of the Astrodome was underway, the team’s owner, Roy Hofheinz, decided to add a unique attraction to the stadium: a rail car. Hofheinz purchased an old rail car and had it refurbished to become a luxurious private seating area for VIPs attending Astros games.

The rail car served as a private retreat for many famous faces over the years, including politicians and celebrities. However, after many years of use, the rail car fell into disrepair and was eventually sold off to a private collector.

The current owner of the Astrodome Rail Car, however, is not the original buyer. Instead, the rail car was passed down from one generation of a family to the next, and finally ended up in the possession of a man named Dale Eads.

Dale learned of the rail car’s history and immediately became fascinated by it. He spent years restoring the car to its former glory, painstakingly refurbishing every inch of it back to its original state. The process was no small feat, as many of the rail car’s original features had been long lost.

Now, the Astrodome Rail Car is a stunning example of luxury and history combined. The car features authentic 1960s décor, complete with vintage furniture, wallpaper, and shag carpeting. A small kitchenette provides all the necessary amenities for a comfortable stay, including a sink, stove, and refrigerator.

In addition to its stunning aesthetic appeal, the Astrodome Rail Car is also a beloved piece of Houston history. The car has made appearances at various events throughout the city, and is often a popular destination for tours and interviews.

Throughout the episode, viewers will learn about the unique challenges that come with preserving historical artifacts like the Astrodome Rail Car. From finding the necessary parts and materials for restoration, to navigating complex legal issues around transportation and ownership, the Astrodome Rail Car has posed many unique challenges for its owners over the years.

However, the dedication and passion of those involved in the rail car’s preservation has paid off. Today, the Astrodome Rail Car stands as a testament to the ingenuity, innovation, and luxury of a bygone era. Its unique story and fascinating history make it a must-see destination for anyone interested in sports, history, or Americana.

Overall, Strange Inheritance season 5 episode 23 is a captivating and educational exploration of one family’s connection to a piece of American history, and the remarkable efforts they undertook to preserve it for future generations.