The wife and I just returned from a trip out west to Nevada, California and Arizona. One of the highlights was a terrific ride from Carson City to Virginia City on the reincarnated Virginia & Truckee behind McCloud River 2-8-2 #18. While going through Gold Hill, Nevada, I was surprised to see a 2-6-2 under steam. I intended to take the V&T shuttle back to Gold Hill to take a look at the little Prairie, but the conductor on the V&T train told me that the engine had been put away for the day. On the return trip, I noticed that the fire had indeed been killed, but the engine was still sitting outside. Can anyone give me info on the engine and her purpose at Gold Hill? She is apparently not a part of the V&T operation.

Thanks.

Les

The #8 is enjoying its stay in Gold Hill, but as for provenance goes, it would be appropriate at the museum in Portola, especially if they ever get to operate to Loyalton. It also has a connection to Truckee where a new railroad museum is starting but is likely to be a static museum.

I expect it to stay in Gold Hill for some time. It was liked by the V&T and if the right kind of agreement were in place (and restoration funding, I presume) they would utilize the engine.
See article below on the engine, which is the best summary I have seen:
http://goldhillnv.org/Locomotive_8_History.pdf