The Steam Railroading Institute The Steam Railroading Institute (SRI) was created by the Michigan State Trust for Railway Preservation, Inc. "to educate the public about steam-era railroad technology and its impact on our culter and economy." Programs are implemented through a group of dedicated volunteers who enjoy working "back in time" to see and feel what their ancestors saw as a part of everyday life. The volunteers and SRI staff share their hands-on experiences with the public at our 7-acre facility in Owosso.