Folks,
There has been some discussion on Carolinarails on Yahoo that the final Heisler built, an 80 Ton model for the Middle Fork RR, is in need of a new home. It is said that the group at the North Carolina Railroad Museum at Bonsal, NC no longer wishes to continue working on this project, and hopes someone will take it off their hands. The engine is disassembled currently, and in a state of restoration. Any interested parties can contact the group at NHVRWY@aol.com, nhvry@mindspring.com, or nhvry@netpath.net. If these don't work, then send me a mail off list for some personal contacts. I'll hang onto the list for a few days in case someone needs it. Thanks!

Russell Underwood

NFDRwy@Cox.net

Russell,
It is important to note that your source is indeed a "discussion on Carolinarails" and not a public notice that the organization has made any decisions or is in fact currently looking for a new home for the locomotive. We have had some informal inquiries.
Deaccessioning the Heisler is something that is under consideration due to our present focus on Vulcan # 17 and acknowledgement of limited resources to undertake proper restoration of #7. Like many folks, balancing the best interests of the organization and the preservation of the artifact is the objective. It may be best to step aside and seek a credible steward to take her.
I expect a final decision to be reached soon regarding the Chapter's intent. Rest assured, I will personally post to this board the conclusion.

staybolt@bellsouth.net

My apologies Bill. From a couple of the mails I recieved, I took it as some of these guys were in the group, and were legitimately looking for a home for the locomotive. They have supplied several email addresses and phone numbers, which led me to that conclusion. I know there are several museum members on this board, and thought it would be a good place to try and get some interest in the engine. I should have talked with the museum people first. I won't make that mistake again. Did'nt mean to step on your toes...

Russell Underwood

NFDRwy@Cox.net