Detroit Toledo & Ironton Railroad Caboose, 1925

This 1858 Rogers steam locomotive is typical of those used in the United States in the second half of the 19th century. Its flexible wheel arrangement, high power output, and light weight were well suited to the tight curves, steep grades, and hastily constructed track that characterized American railroads. This locomotive struck an agreeable balance between practicality, safety, and economy.

Henry Ford bought the Detroit, Toledo & Ironton Railroad in 1920. He used its 378-mile mainline -- between Detroit and Ironton, Ohio -- as a giant conveyor belt, hauling coal from Ford-owned mines to the Rouge in Dearborn. Ford spent $15 million improving DT&I's track and equipment but grew tired of burdensome railroad regulations. He sold the line in 1929.

Cotswold Cottage is from the Cotswold Hills in southwest England. The Fords were attracted to the distinctive character of Cotswold buildings, which are characterized by the yellow-brown stone, tall gables, steeply pitched roofs, and stone ornamentation around windows and doors. Several decorative additions were made to the house in England, before dismantling and re-erecting it in Greenfield Village.

This 1858 Rogers steam locomotive is typical of those used in the United States in the second half of the 19th century. Its flexible wheel arrangement, high power output, and light weight were well suited to the tight curves, steep grades, and hastily constructed track that characterized American railroads. This locomotive struck an agreeable balance between practicality, safety, and economy.