Our Story
The H&R Caboose Roost
Meet Your Host
Tina Bales
More than a place to stay — this caboose carries a story.
My love for trains began when I was a child, watching for my dad at a
railroad crossing in Sauget, Illinois.
He was a train engineer for the Terminal Railroad Association of St. Louis.
I would wave and count the cars, always hoping he’d see me.
A Dream That Came Full Circle
Years later, I came across this 1958 Rock Island caboose —
later used by the Chicago & North Western Railway.
I knew I had to bring it home!
What started as a dream quickly became something much
more meaningful.
The Meaning Behind H&R
The name honors two men connected to this caboose.
H is for my father, Harry — who inspired my love of trains.
R is for Rick — the previous owner, who dreamed of living in
the caboose, but never got the chance.
This restoration carries both of their stories forward.
What You’ll Experience
Morning coffee on the platform and firepit nights under the stars.
A space where history and comfort meet.
From the cupola loft above the rails to the thoughtful details
throughout, every part was designed to feel both nostalgic and welcoming.
What began as a dream has become a place where memories are made.
My hope is that your time here feels meaningful, relaxing, and truly one-of-a-kind.
More than a place to stay — it’s an experience.
Bringing the Caboose Back to Life
The restoration began in 2024.
It was taken down to its steel shell and rebuilt from the inside out — with new framing, insulation, electrical, and plumbing.
In December, the caboose was carefully moved to its new home.
By spring 2025, it began to take shape again — with new finishes, furnishings, and the details you see today.
In December, the caboose was carefully moved to its new home.