Donald Beem with a steam engine touring New Mexico in celebration of the state's centennial.Donald Beem, local historian and long-time railroad enthusiast, will give a free presentation on the history of Grant County railroads at the Silver City Public Library on Tuesday, December 6, 4:00 p.m.

The railroad first came to Grant County in 1892 to support the mining industry, and it subsequently played a significant role in the development of the area. Mr. Beem will discuss the timeline of railroad development, the companies, and the people involved. Mr. Beem is also an avid modeler, deeply involved in operating the model railroads currently at the Old Hurley Store. Items from his collection will be on display at the library for the remainder of the month of December.

The Silver City Public Library is located at 515 W. College Avenue, at the corner of College and Cooper Street in Silver City. For more information, contact the library at 575-538-3672 or ref@silvercitymail.com.