The primary purpose is to increase public awareness and appreciation for the history of white pine county, nevada. this is accomplished through the use of historic steam train rides and a museum dedicated to maintaining and preserving an integral part of its illustrious past.it is the museum's mission: to preserve and restore to operating condition, the complete collection of the nevada northern railway for the education and enjoyment of present and future generations, to preserve the museum's seventy-two buildings and structures for the permanent protection and display of the locomotives, railroad cars and equipment,to perpetuate the memory of the "can-do" spirit and vision that built not only nevada but the united states, to teach and make available the indispensable heritage industrial arts, mechanical skills and techniques needed to preserve, maintain and operate all components of the railroad.