Would love to see some commentary about the nature of this operation and what plans they have. It's been a couple of years since we've seen any steam in Florida, outside of the theme parks.
|
I'll second Kevin's comments. What's the story with this railroad? It's the year 2020 and your photo shows a railroad using a Pacific class steam locomotive to pull freight. I'm definitely not complaining...I think it's neat that steam can still be used. Thanks for sharing.
|
Thank you both for your comments. This locomotive is of FEC heritage and was sold to U.S Sugar for freight service in 1952. After working for the Black River and Western in New Jersey, it wound up in Monte Vista, Colorado. In 2016, U.S Sugar repurchased it and fully restored it in April of this year. My photos were from a test run it did on the western part of their line. The railroad plans to use it for passenger service around Lake Okeechobee. calling it the "Sugar Express." This website has more information: https://www.ussugar.com/news/u-s-sugar-steam-locomotive-no-148-hauls-sugarcane-train-to-mill-ending-harvest-season-new-sugar-express-launched/
|
Didn't they just acquire a second FEC pacific from the Gold Coast Museum with plans to restore it?
|
@clinchfieldman: I have not heard of them purchasing another locomotive from Gold Coast but I doubt they would restore another one after the costs they incurred with the #148.
|