The track extension from Lütjenkamp to Rehncampe

At the track extension

It all began in December 2003, when the lease on the DFKM museum shed in Lütjenkamp was terminated with effect from 31 December 2003. This was a very serious situation for the association at the time, as this museum shed was an integral part of the DFKM. The museum exhibition was located there, vehicles were parked, and visitors could enjoy coffee and cake there during museum events.

After intensive discussions with a large number of people, especially from the political community, it became clear that all the people and organisations contacted wanted the DFKM to continue to exist in Deinste and offered active help. At the time, the DFKM was receiving around 4,000 visitors a year and had established itself as a permanent tourist attraction in the community.

A old milking shed in Rehncampe that was no longer in use was leased by the association. To do this, the existing track had to be extended by approx. 800 metres so that the trains could reach Rehncampe.

After the track externsion work had started, the situation changed again. The cancellation of the lease of the museum shed in Lütjenkamp was withdrawn. This required a revision of the concept. The following was decided :

  • The track extension to Rehncampe will be finished.
  • The purpose of the museum shed in Lütjenkamp will not be changed.
  • The shed at the end of the track in Rehncampe is converted into a vehicle shelter
  • A bypass track with siding is being built at the Rehncampe storage shed.

The construction work on the route extension started in 2006. After a long interruption the work was resumed and completed in 2017 after a required correction of the track route.

Since then, the trains have travelled with the Henschel steam locomotive between Deinste station and Lütjenkamp. The open trolley wagons, pulled by diesel locomotives, run from Deinste station to Rehncampe with intermediate stops in Hagel and Lütjenkamp. It is possible to ‘change trains’ there.

In 2022, the DFKM had to vacate the old milking shed at the end of the line in Rehenkampe. This had no impact on the DFKM's museum operations.