Bill Aleks was a natural engineer who loved to design and create. Although he received his first model train as a child, it was only in his last decade that he began attending train shows and building this exhibit.

Since the exhibit was donated to the Ann Arbor Hands-On Museum, it has brought joy to countless children through its miniature realism and feats of engineering. To honor Bill’s love of this project, his family is facilitating donations so his trains can be maintained and displayed.

Every winter, the Museum welcomes tens of thousands of visitors for two weeks of guest performances and special activities at Hands-On Holidays. During this Period, we place Bills model trains on display for everyone to enjoy, staffing the space with volunteers to interpret the exhibit to guests.

Donating in support of the model train exhibit at the Ann Arbor Hands-On Museum will enable us to continue sharing Bill Aleks's love of trains with our visitors for years to come.

Please make a donation below or mail a check to 220 E. Ann St., Ann Arbor, MI 48104 with "Model Trains Donation" written in the memo line. We thank you for your support!