Hey moderatorrs! Can we split this into a new thread to avoid cluttering this one?

Greetings, Ken Middlebrook, et al:

Thank you one and all for your comments and suggestions! A few comments from me:

Far from being a challenge, "changes in status, ownership and/or location" are the main reason I have continued to update and improve upon "The U.S. Steam Locomotive Directory" compiled by Victor Koenigsberg and published in August 1967. Those of you who possess (or have read) the 1st (and so far only) edition of "The Steam Locomotive Directory of North America" know that I credit Victor's work; I merely followed his lead after helping him with the updates that he published through a publication called "Locomotive Notes.

Victor's goal (and later mine) was to not only keep track of where steam locomotives were to be found, but also provide builder's data, basic mechanical specifications AND ownership histories with the various locations at which locomotives were used, stored or displayed.

My main challenge has never been locomotives moving around and new information being learned about them, rather, it is all about time and other commitments, i.e.: keeping the locomotives and cars of the Valley Railroad in good condition and coming up with new ways for the railroad to make money.

There are several sites on the internet where some information on steam locomotives is gathered, however, no one site has updated much besides locations since 1988 (the year my book was published). I would also note that none of the sites have given "The U.S, Steam Locomotive Directory" or "The Steam Locomotive Directory of North America" credit for any of their information (I'll stop whining now).

In my opinion, one of the main uses for books such as these is to provide some context as why steam locomotives, beautiful and impressive as they are, have historical significance to the regions and towns where they currently reside: why were they important enough to be preserved and to be maintained.

When I read that Fred Steck's 2-6-2 No. 18 had gone to Sioux City, I was quite pleased that it had found a home where it might be viewed and appreciated rather than locked up in a building.

Closing, I would note that through K.R. Bell or Eric Schlentner's postings, I was contacted by a publisher who might be interested in the 2nd edition of "THE BOOK". More on this later (I hope).

Be well & stay safe,
J.David

PS: Today (November 2nd) is the 63rd anniversary of my first steam fan trip, behind CB&Q No. 5632, Chicago to Galesburg and return. JDC