For more than 40 years, the crimson caboose on Cannery Row served as a shop, owned until 2018 by the late local author Randy Reinstedt and his wife, Debbie Reinstedt. After its sale, it became simply a unique landmark, well-suited for selfies and group photos.
“I purchased the caboose in 2018 with the goal of preserving a unique piece of history and keeping it in the community for future generations to enjoy,” says the caboose’s current owner, local real estate broker Ed Ciliberti.
After serving as its steward for nearly a decade, Ciliberti has put the solitary train car up for sale for $75,000, not because he wants to, but because the City of Monterey wants the historic vehicle removed from its longtime home.
Ciliberti says that he had some health-related issues and fell behind on the caboose’s rent over the past year. After he paid the back rent and offered to pay a year’s rent in advance, he says the City of Monterey declined.
Monterey Leasing and Property Manager Janna Aldrete says Ciliberti remains in default under the written lease, which is being terminated, so the caboose must be removed from city property.
Ciliberti asserts that he doesn’t need to sell the caboose for financial reasons and is willing to donate it to the right individual or organization, such as a museum or historical society, or keep it for himself and have it moved, which he estimates will cost between $10,000 and $20,000 and require street closures and a crane for the heavy lift.
“Perhaps I should donate it to someone in need of a shelter, convert it into a tiny home or a children’s library and donate it to a school,” Ciliberti says. “Only time will tell.”