Кот-охранник Квинни официально трудоустроена в железнодорожном музее Меридиана

Queenie, the railroad museum kitty cat Published 10:46 pm Friday, August 14, 2026 She’s tough, she’s strong, sassy and furry but don’t be misled to think that Queenie is only a pretty face. Nope, Queenie, the railroad museum cat, has a job description and she takes it seriously. You might ask – why does a two-pound kitty have a job description? Let me tell you all about it. You see this past June and July, the museum invited children for a fun-time each week. We called it “Thursdays at the Museum.” It was quite a success. We taught early Meridian history through storytelling, especially train history. We sang, danced, and made beautiful artwork. Plus, all of the kids, big and small, enjoyed rides on our miniature train. And then there was snack-time. We served cookies and punch. Thus, Queenie, the kitty cat, arrived on the scene. That’s right the museum realized a kitty cat was needed because within one week a mouse appeared. Yes, a mouse who had a big appetite for cookies. We set out traps but the mouse paid no attention. By the third week Shelby, the museum’s summer intern, and I were at our wit’s end. That’s when I saw Queenie’s photo on FB. You see the Lauderdale County Animal Control Shelter had advertised that Queenie needed a home. And yes, the Railroad Museum needed a kitty cat. It was three weeks ago that Shelby and I drove Highway 45 North to Marion with the aim to meet Queenie. Immediately we knew she was the kitty for us. So, with a stop at Dollar General to purchase kitty cat food, litter and a litter box, we brought her to the museum. I must say she is adjusting well or maybe we at the museum are adjusting well. I have posted signs inside and out, “Beware of Cat.” Not that she’s bad, well not too bad, but that she is now our official Watch Cat, with a job description. We named the kitty the perfect name of Queenie in honor of Meridian, the Queen City. And I must commend Rocky and the Lauderdale County Animal Control for their awesome work, saving innocent dogs and cats. If you are not aware, the shelter makes sure the sweet animals have all shots and neutering done before the animal leaves the shelter. The adoption cost for Queenie was $75, an amazing low cost for the adoptive parents. Then last week the museum registered Queenie at the City of Meridian Animal Shelter and she also received a chip. Now if she should wander away, there is a good chance we can find her. Today Queenie and I invite you to stop by Meridian Railroad Museum, 1805 Front Street, to meet the furry girl. She will probably meet you at the front door, so beware. And the mouse, he is long-gone, because Queenie takes her job seriously. Anne McKee is director at Meridian Railroad Museum. See the website: www.meridianrails.org