I remember the initial reason given for restoring 1309 was exactly that: 1309's horsepower would be capable of pulling more cars and thus reducing costs per passenger. Plus, they said at the time, even having sat outside since retirement it was in much better shape than 734. Add the fact that 1309 isn't from upper Michigan but rather is correct for the region and I can't fault them for the decision to restore 1309, even from a pure emotionless accounting standpoint it makes sense.

“I volunteer at a tourist RR with a steam engine that's been down a while, and I do see people driving up and asking if our steam is running, then they leave once we confirmed it's a diesel up front.”


That was my experience as well selling tickets for many years. I just find it interesting that many claim nobody cares if it’s steam or diesel and now suddenly people are claiming people will care that it’s a “special” steam engine!

As to your other point... I’m not complaining the 734 isn’t running, I’m suggesting that it was a poor business decision to tackle a project that was clearly too much for them to handle. I’m not trying to be overly negative, I’ll assure you I’ll be buying a ticket to ride behind 1309 and will pay extra if there is an open air car!

So may I ask, is the former LS&I Consolidation finished, dead, kaput, joined the roundhouse invisible, an ex-operating steam locomotive?

And don't tell me "It's pining for the fjords".

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Mr. Anderson makes an important point. That and a long list of other poor decisions along the way have certainly not helped.

Also, always remember that old truism........success always has multiple fathers, failure is always a bastard child !!!

Let's hope that they're due for a little good luck for a change !!!

Ross Rowland

The 734 is featured in the brand new Western Maryland Scenic logo along with the 1309.

It's just resting.

I did read that they separated the engine and tender, and started some preliminary work.