Greetings,

The MOT in St. Louis has former M&STL 546, which is an RS-1. I have heard conflicting reports that that state that this unit is supposed to be 1) cosmetically restored to M&STL paint or 2) scrapped because the museum is thinning its collection. Could someone clarify this?

Thanks,
Tom

rrhistorian@hotmail.com

Due to the recent acquisition of Arkansas & Missouri RS-1 #22, the Museum determined the M&StL engine to be surplus to its collection. We are currently in discussions with a few appropriate institutions that may have an interest in acquiring the piece. While the gracious members of the C&NW Historical Society were beginning to assist with its cosmetic restoration at MOT, the project was put on hold following the acquisition of the other engine.

It is unfortunate that the "rumor" has gotten around that it will be scrapped; it is a far too historic and significant piece to ever be considered in the same breath as scrapping. If we are unable to find an appropriate home for it at this time, we will continue to hold it until one can be found. While the piece no longer fits in our collection, we are nevertheless its stewards and have a responsibility to protect it.

Museum of Transportation
Molly_Butterworth@stlouisco.com

> While the piece no longer fits
> in our collection, we are nevertheless its
> stewards and have a responsibility to
> protect it.

Thank you for taking such a progressive attitude. I understand that the unit was damaged during the 93' floods while in service with an industry. Could you explain the extent that this unit was damaged? Also, are there any significant hurdles that need to be crossed to cosmetically restore this unit to a M&STL appearance?

Tom


rrhistorian@hotmail.com

It is our understanding that as the '93 floodwaters approached, the crew left the locomotive running on high ground with the hopes of returning to move it. Unfortunately, they never did, and though the locomotive was never flooded, it suffered catastrophic engine damage when the lubricating oil pump locked up.

The locomotive is in very good shape otherwise and would be a relatively easy restoration. In one sense, the hardest part of the restoration has been done because the elusive paint codes for its unique blue/purple paint scheme were finally found last year. Otherwise, its body is very solid, and the locomotive is pretty complete.

Museum of Transportation
Molly_Butterworth@stlouisco.com