Here is where things stand regarding all the current steam locomotive restorations (as best as I can determine right now).

[Also, I decided to include links to any of the organizations/railroads/tourist lines that could use donations to either help maintain their steam locomotive(s) or aid in the restoration of their steam locomotive(s). This is by no means an attempt to pressure anyone to donate. I'm just attempting to make it a little easier for anyone who would like to donate to any of these locomotives. If anyone knows a donation link for any of the locomotives that don't have one listed, please feel free to provide it.]


Highlights from 2019

- This is the biggest (literally and figuratively) news that has happened in steam preservation. Union Pacific 4884-1 class 4-8-8-4 Big Boy #4014 returned to operation in time for the 150th anniversary of the completion of the Transcontinental Railroad on May 10th, 2019 (also marking the first time a Big Boy has moved under his own power in ~60 years), and he then toured the Upper Midwest and the Southwest. “THE KING OF STEAM” HAS RETURNED! [Update: #4014 toured the Lower and Central Midwest in 2021. It was awesome to see "The King" in action!]

- While not an operational restoration, the Age of Steam Roundhouse achieved what many considered almost impossible and acquired Bessemer & Lake Erie H-1g class 2-10-4 #643. The locomotive is being moved to the roundhouse, and the locomotive will be cosmetically restored.

- Norfolk & Western M class 4-8-0 #475 started, and finished, her 1472 SDI. She returned to service in fall 2019, and N&W 4-8-4 #611 joined in the festivities of #475 coming out of her 1472 SDI. Nicely done, Strasburg! [Thanks Kelly Anderson]

- White Pass & Yukon 70 class 2-8-2 #73 was successfully restored back to operation and made multiple successful runs. Congratulations, WP&Y! I'm glad she's up and running again.

- Middle Fork 3-truck Climax #9 had her restoration completed and was operational in 2019. She has joined Cass' numerous Shays and Heisler. Way to go, Cass & D&GVR!

- Duluth & Northeastern (Duluth Missabe & Northern) C-3 class 2-8-0 #28 returned to service again after having some extensive running gear work (and a little 'facelift'), and she even got to greet "The King of the Rails" when he visited on his tour through the Upper Midwest. [Thanks The Fireman]

- Georgetown Loop B-4G class 2-8-0 #40 was returned to service in Silver Plume. [Thanks Tails]

- Sierra Railway 28 class 2-8-0 #28 was returned to service at Railtown 1897. Congratulations, guys! Job well done. [Thanks o484]

- Denver & Rio Grande T-12 4-6-0 #168 was fully restored to operational condition at the Cumbres and Toltec Scenic Railroad shops in Antonito, and she had test runs to show she's up and running. Great job, C&TS! [Thanks o anderson]

- Conway Scenic O-18a class 0-6-0 #7470 was returned to service, and the Conway Scenic Railroad is considering the idea of also restoring Maine Central 2-8-0 #501 in the not-so-distant future. Here's hoping that does come to fruition. [Thanks steamchaser]

- Jones and Laughlin Steel (narrow-gauge) 0-4-0T #58 was successfully rebuilt and has operated multiple times. Well done, guys! You should be very proud. [Thanks Rick Rowlands]


Highlights from 2020

- Probably some of the biggest news in 2020, the East Broad Top Railroad was purchased and will be brought back into service. In addition, EBT 14 class 2-8-2 #14 & 16 class 2-8-2 #16 are being worked on and will be returned to operation. Many of us never thought EBT would get a third chance, and I know we’re all so happy to be wrong about that. Congratulations all around! I can’t wait to see the place when everything is up and running.

- In a surprise development, the Western Maryland Scenic Railroad showed us Chesapeake & Ohio H-6 class 2-6-6-2 #1309 fully steamed up, and she moved under her own power for the first time in over 60 years. Congratulations, WMSR! You succeeded and got #1309 running again. You should be very proud of yourselves. Hopefully, the test runs will go well, and “Maryland Thunder” will be pulling passengers very soon.

- Weyerhaeuser Timber Co. (Potlatch Lumber Company) 24 class 2-6-6-2T No. 108 has been restored at the Black Hills Central Railroad. I can't wait to see her in action once tourist operations can start.

- Denver & Rio Grande Western (Durango & Silverton) K-37 class 2-8-2 #493 was returned to service, and the D&S crews made several successful runs. [Thanks o484]

- Florida East Coast 141 class 4-6-2 #148 was successfully restored to operation, and she made multiple successful runs. It is amazing that U.S. Sugar has been able to do what most people had written off. Congratulations, U.S. Sugar! I can’t wait to see #148 hopefully pulling trains again soon.

- Little River Railroad 110 class 4-6-2 #110 had her 1472-day rebuild finished, and she was able to pull the Christmas trains in December 2020. Well done, everyone! You did a great job getting her finished up and running again.

- Rio Grande Southern (Florence & Cripple Creek) T-19 class 4-6-0 #20 was successfully rebuilt, reassembled, and she operated in 2020. Excellent job to all who played a role in her return to operation. You did a magnificent job. [Thanks o anderson]

- Northern Pacific L-5 class 0-6-0 #924 was successfully fired up at the Northwest Railway Museum, and she even managed to pull a few trains in 2020. Here's hoping we see more of her in 2021. [Thanks o anderson]


Highlights in 2021

- Chesapeake & Ohio (Western Maryland Scenic Railroad) H-6 class 2-6-6-2 #1309 finally had her rebuild completed. She then successfully underwent test runs, and she managed to pull the Polar Express trains at the end of the year. Congratulations, WMSR! After all of the trials and tribulations, you achieved your goal and fully restored #1309. You should all be incredibly proud of yourselves.

- On July 24th 2021, Atchison, Topeka & Santa Fe 2900 class 4-8-4 #2926 moved under her own power for the first time since her retirement. Congratulations, NMSLRHS! She will be quite a sight when she's finished up and running at speed. http://www.nmslrhs.org/Help/howtohelp.php

- Denver & Rio Grande Western (Durango & Silverton) K-28 class 2-8-2 #473 is now the 2nd locomotive at the D&S to undergo a conversion to burn oil, and K-36 class 2-8-2 #480 has also been converted to burn oil.

- Nevada Northern 81 class 2-8-0 #81 has been fully restored and is now operating. Congratulations, NNRy! She looks and sounds fantastic. [Thanks Brian Norden]

- Valley Railroad 2-8-0 #97 has had extensive work done (on what seems like just about everything except her boiler), and she had successful test runs before she joined 2-8-2s #40 & #3025 pulling the North Pole Express trains. Well done, Valley Railroad! I do love hearing #97 run. [Thank you J. David]

- Santa Maria Valley (San Joaquin & Eastern) 205 class 2-6-2 #205 has finished a very long and thorough rebuild, and she has now been purchased by the Albany & Eastern Railroad to pull their Santiam Excursion Trains. She successfully pulled passengers before the end of the year. Congratulations, guys! You did a Grade A job, and she looks gorgeous.


Currently in 2022

- Iowa Interstate (Chinese) QJ class 2-10-2 #6988 just ran out of flue time, and, hopefully, her 1472 SDI will be starting in the near future. Here's hoping it's not too long before she's running the rails again.

- Southern Pacific F-1 class 2-10-2 #982 is being moved to the Texas Railroading Heritage Museum, and the Texas Railway Preservation Society will be working to restore her to operation. Best of luck to all involved. It'll be something to see a US-built 2-10-2 operating again someday.

- Atchison, Topeka & Santa Fe 2900 class 4-8-4 #2926 continues her march to having her restoration completed. Keep going strong, NMSLRHS! She'll be quite a sight when she's finished up and running at speed. http://www.nmslrhs.org/Help/howtohelp.php

- Atchison, Topeka & Santa Fe 4-8-4 3751 class #3751 is finishing up her rebuild, and she should be operable very soon. https://www.sbrhs.org/donate/

- Nashville, Chattanooga & St. Louis J3-57 class 4-8-4 #576 is currently being restored to operation, and the NSPS has been making good, steady progress with #576’s restoration. I'm so glad that things are going so right for her, and what a beauty she will be when she's finished. https://www.nashvillesteam.org/donate/

- Reading T-1 class 4-8-4 #2100 is steadily getting closer and closer to finishing up her restoration, and what a sight she will be. It will be a truly wonderful day to see her in her former glory again. https://www.fireup2100.org/donate/

- Reading T-1 class 4-8-4 #2102 has had her restoration proceeding very nicely (and mostly under the radar). She was fired up in mid-January, and here's hoping it won't be too long before she's making test runs.

- St. Louis Southwestern (Cotton Belt) L1 class 4-8-4 #819 is currently being cosmetically restored as an operational restoration is proving difficult at this time (but I don't think it's out of the question). I do hope she is able to get up and running again one day in the future.

- Spokane, Portland & Seattle E-1 class 4-8-4 #700 is proceeding very nicely in her rebuild. Last I was able to check, the superheater piping is being reinstalled. Hopefully, #700 will be returning to service very soon. [Thanks Les Beckman]

- Pennsylvania T-1b class 4-4-4-4 #5550 is still steadily being constructed and moving closer and closer to completion. She is currently well over 30% complete. [Thanks NS6770fan] https://prrt1steamlocomotivetrust.org/station/

- Canadian National U-1-f class 4-8-2 #6060 appears to have started receiving some work on her latest restoration. "The Rocky Mountain Rail Society that owns the locomotive up in Alberta, Canada has decided to commence work on the 4-8-2 even though not all of the funds for her restoration are currently available." [Thanks Les Beckman] https://6060.org/donations-page

- Chesapeake & Ohio K-4 class 2-8-4 #2716 is proceeding along with her (very thorough)restoration very nicely, and they hope to have her operable in the not-to-distant future. [Update: KSHC has signed an agreement to run #2716 in New England after her restoration is finished. That will be quite the sight.] [Thank you, soups] https://www.paypal.com/donate/?hosted_b ... P39ZNB3UMY

- Boone & Scenic Valley (Chinese) JS class 2-8-2 #8419 is undergoing her 1472 SDI. The railroad is still trying to raise funds to complete #8419's rebuild and have her in service again as soon as possible. https://bsvrr.com/wp/get-8419-steaming-in-2019/

- Crossett Western Company 10 class 2-8-2T #10 is currently undergoing her 1472-day inspection at the Chelatchie Prairie Railroad. Hopefully, it won't be too much longer before she is back at work pulling passengers on the line.

- Denver & Rio Grande Western (Cumbres & Toltec) K-36 class 2-8-2 #489 is progressing very nicely with her 1472 SDI. She is also being converted to burn oil. (I believe she'll be the first on the C&TS to burn oil. Please correct me if I'm wrong.) Great job so far, guys, and here's hoping she'll be running again soon.

- Denver & Rio Grande Western (Durango & Silverton) K-28 class 2-8-2 #476 will be undergoing the conversion to burn oil, joining the likings of #493, #473, & #480. Best of luck to Al Harper that all conversions planned go smoothly.

- Cowlitz, Chehalis & Cascade (Puget Sound & Cascade) 200 class 2-8-2 #15 has been down since last year when it was discovered that multiple repairs needed to be done. Early in 2020, the Chehalis-Centralia Railroad & Museum received $154,000 from the state of Washington's supplemental capital budget, and, early this year, #15 underwent a thorough inspection from Stathi Pappas. There is still quite a bit to do, but here's hoping it won't be too long before she is running again. https://www.paypal.com/donate/?cmd=_s-x ... source=url

- Grand Trunk Western S-3-a class 2-8-2 #4070 continues to move along with her restoration. While she is still quite a ways from being finished, here's hoping it won't be too long before she's running down the rails again. https://www.midwestrailway.org/article/restoration-4070

- New York, Susquehanna & Western (Chinese) SY class 2-8-2 #142 has been making very good progress on her 1472. Hopefully, it won't be too much longer before she's pulling trains again. http://tnyswthsi.shuttlepod.org/donate.htm

- Polson Logging 90 class 2-8-2 #90 is being saved and restored by the Oregon Coast Scenic Railroad. Hopefully, she will be up and running one day. https://www.savethepolson90.org/

- Santa Maria Valley 21 class 2-8-2 #21 appears (based off of their website) to be progressing along nicely in her restoration in Astoria, Oregon. [Thanks Les Beckman] https://www.astoriarailroad.org/index.html

- Southern Pacific Mk-5 class 2-8-2 #745 is undergoing her 1472 SDI. Any donations to the Louisiana Steam Train Association to aid in #745's return to service again would be greatly appreciated. http://www.lasta.org/sp-745/

- Southern Pacific Mk-5 class 2-8-2 #786 continues to make slow, but steady, progress in her restoration to service. The Strasburg shops have also done some past work for the group. [Thanks Les Beckman] https://www.austinsteamtrain.org/donate-786-fund/

- Yreka Western (Caddo & Choctaw) R L Rowan class 2-8-2 #19 is being restored to operation at the Age of Steam Roundhouse. Here's hoping it won't be long before she's running under her own power again in the near future. [Thanks WVNorthern]

- Alaska Railroad S160 class 2-8-0 #557 is moving even closer towards operation. Best of luck, guys, and keep going strong. http://557.alaskarails.org/support/index.html

- Arcade & Attica 2-8-0 #18 is down for repairs, and any additional contributions to her repairs would always be appreciated. https://235ffd4e-b927-42a2-a3c0-685f180 ... d979ac.pdf & https://fh-sites.imgix.net/sites/4697/2 ... nt-2-1.jpg

- Denver & Rio Grande Western C-16 class 2-8-0 #223 has been in restoration for 20 years now. Her tender is basically complete (minus some miscellaneous components) and painted. At this point, the emphasis of the work will be on the locomotive (with the drivers & axles being the main goal). Unfortunately, in 2019, the restoration crew was locked out from where the locomotive is housed, and restoration work was brought to a stop. In early November, #223 was inspected by Stathi Pappas, and he found the work done by the R&LHS Golden Spike Chapter to be sound. His findings will be included in the restoration report, and here’s hoping that the State of Utah will allow the restoration to resume. https://gsrlhs.home.blog/2021/11/05/223 ... tion-work/ [Thanks burbri45 & xboxtravis7992]

- Huntingdon & Broad Top Mountain 37 class 2-8-0 #38 "is progressing on a low priority basis with passenger cars consuming more of the capital dollars at the moment. Firebox repairs should be completed in 2021 at which point we will turn our attention to the running gear." [Thanks Alan Maples]

- Great Western 75 class 2-8-0 #75 has been down for quite some time, but, like UP #618, she is slowly, but surely, undergoing a very through rebuild. Hopefully, it won't be too long in the future before we see her under her own power again. [Thanks xboxtravis7992]

- Lake Superior & Ishpeming SC-4 class 2-8-0 #18 has been acquired by the Colebrookdale Railroad and will be restored to operation alongside Grand Trunk Western 4-6-2 #5030. Best of luck, everyone. https://www.colebrookdalerailroad.com/steam/donate/

- Soo Line F-21-S class 2-8-0 #2425 was purchased by Mineral Range Railroad in Michigan for restoration. Has anyone heard anything about her since 2019?

- Southern H-4 class 2-8-0 #401 was taken down for her 1472 SDI at the start of 2020. Any contributions to her rebuild would be greatly appreciated. http://www.mrym.org/donation.html

- Union Pacific 420-superheated class 2-8-0 #428 is now getting some more focused attention on her restoration (since J. Neils Lumber Company 3-truck Shay #5 is now up and running and Frisco 1613 class 2-10-0 #1630 is still operating well). I think this ol' girl has been very patient, and, now, she's going to be getting a lot of TLC. https://www.irm.org/up428/

- Union Pacific (Heber Valley Railroad) C-2 class 2-8-0 #618 is still moving along steadily with her restoration (as best as we know) as resources are available, and the plan, depending on how things go, is that she could be operational in the near future. [Thanks burbri45 & xboxtravis7992] https://www.hebervalleyrr.org/the-no-61 ... tion-blog/

- Washington & Lincolnton 203 class 2-8-0 #203 has had her boiler ultrasounded and should be receiving new tubes this year. Hopefully, she'll be running alongside Southern 458 class 2-8-0 #154 again soon. [Thanks RookieFireman]

- White Pass & Yukon 61 class 2-8-0 #61 is an outside-frame locomotive that once was in the Skagway River as rip-rap. Stathi Pappas, the current owner, and his Stockton Locomotive Works are slowly working on this project as time is available. A lot of work has been done on this locomotive, and I can't wait to see how good she will look when she's finished and operating again. It’s great to see another locomotive getting yet another chance at life. [Thanks Brian Norden]

- White Pass & Yukon 69 class 2-8-0 #69 might also be running in the near future (for the first time since 2013). [Thanks JohnHillier]

- Canadian Pacific H-1-b class 4-6-4 #2816 is undergoing an apparent 1472 SDI with reports indicating that her tubes are being pulled. It appears that “The Empress” might be getting ready for a return to operation again.

- Atlantic Coast Line P-5-A class 4-6-2 #1504 was acquired by U.S. Sugar, and she will be restored to operate alongside #148. Personally, I'm very happy for U.S. Sugar for acquiring #1504 and planning to restore her to operation, but I, personally, hope she is able to keep her ACL livery.

- Boston & Maine P-4a class 4-6-2 #3713 is still being restored at Steamtown (as best we know), and, hopefully, we will see her run under her own power again. I know she will look really nice, but, personally, I hope they install the "earmuffs" (small smoke deflectors) on her again at some point. http://www.project3713.com/support-3713/

- Canadian National J-4-a class 4-6-2 #5080 has been “sold” to the Aspen Crossing Railway Corporation “…where it will be resurrected within two years and get her back on track”. It appears that as of March 18th, 2019, the project is getting underway in regards to moving the locomotive and tender. [Thanks Mgoldman]

- Grand Trunk Western J-3a class 4-6-2 #5030 was purchased by the Colebrookdale Railroad and will eventually be restored to operation. Hopefully, we will hear more on this as things develop, and here's hoping it won't be too long before she's running under her own power again. https://www.colebrookdalerailroad.com/steam/donate/

- Louisville & Nashville K-2A class 4-6-2 #152 has been under restoration for quite some time. Hopefully, she can be finished up and pull passengers again someday soon. https://www.kyrail.org/restore-the-ln-152/

- Maine Central C-3 class 4-6-2 #470 is continuing to move along very nicely with her restoration. I can't even imagine how beautiful she will be once she is up and running. https://www.newenglandsteam.org/getinvolved

- Oregon Railroad & Navigation P-2 class 4-6-2 #197 is slowly, but steadily, undergoing a lengthy operational restoration by a group named the "Friends of the OR&N 197". [Thanks Mgoldman]

- Pennsylvania K4s class 4-6-2 #1361 has generally been viewed with quite a bit of pessimism regarding her ever operating under her own power again. That being said, this year, Wick Moorman outlined a new strategic plan to bring #1361 back into service. It looks like #1361 is getting another chance at running again (and a pretty good one from how this looks). https://railroadcity.square.site/produc ... gory_id=14 [Thank you, Ross Rowland]

- Southern Pacific P-10 class 4-6-2 #2479 has been under restoration for quite some time. Hopefully, she can be finished and operated again one day. https://ctrc.org/about-ctrc/donate

- Canadian National H-6-g class 4-6-0 #1392 had a tube replaced this winter and more recently passed her hydro at the Alberta Railway Museum. Hopefully, it won't be long before she's moving under her own power again. [Thanks SD70dude]

- Chicago & North Western R-1 class 4-6-0 #175 has already begun to receive some serious work from SRI. She will be a very nice addition for them when all is said and done. [Thanks Les Beckman] https://michigansteamtrain.charityproud.org/Donate

- Chicago & North Western R-1 class 4-6-0 #1385 has had steady work done on her restoration throughout the year. Hopefully, it won't be too much longer before she's fired up once again. [Thanks John Risley] https://www.midcontinent.org/category/cnw-1385/

- Long Island G5s class 4-6-0 #39 is still trying to raise funds for her restoration by the Strasburg Railroad. Hopefully, she can have her funds raised and be restored someday soon. https://rmli.org/steam-up-engine-39/

- Nevada Northern R E Noble class 4-6-0 #40 went down for her 1472 SDI. Hopefully, it won't be very long before "The Ghost Train" is running once again. https://nnry.doubleknot.com/registratio ... ey=2111007

- Northern Pacific S-4 class 4-6-0 #1364 has also been receiving some work up at Toppenish, Washington. As of January 10th, "Today is a landmark day for the 1364. The Steam Crew guys completely assembled all the superheater tubes and installed them into the manifold.. We are now much closer to the final Federal Railway Administration final inspection." Best of luck, guys. Keep going strong. [Thanks Les Beckman] https://nprymuseum.org/help-out/

- Western Coal & Coke 4-6-0 #1 has just recently had its restoration to operation restarted after 12 years. Here's hoping that she will be running again one day. https://www.midcontinent.org/category/w ... nd-coke-1/

- Cliffside 2-6-2 #110 appears to be undergoing an operation restoration that has managed to slip under the radar. Hopefully, they can get a little more attention to the locomotive and get her running again one day. https://www.triangletrain.com/donate/

- Cummer & Sons Cypress 2-6-2 #104 is currently attempting to raise donations to begin an operation restoration for the locomotive at the Florida Railroad Museum. https://www.facebook.com/FIREUP104/

- Apparently, a 2-ft. gauge Davenport 2-6-2T trench locomotive was restored to operation early this year. I had no idea that this was even a thing.

- Canadian National E-10-a class 2-6-0 #91 is continuing to be restored by the Middletown & Hummelstown as time and finances permit. According to the most recent report, "The boiler was successfully pressure tested, but, unfortunately, the tubes need to be removed to satisfy the 1472 inspection. The engine was only run for 116 days of the last inspection, so everything should be fine." [Thanks Blade3562]

- Nevada County Narrow Gauge Railroad 2-6-0 #5 is continuing her restoration in Nevada City, CA. The 1960 "Quickfire" Dixon boiler installed by Universal Studios will be replaced with a replica boiler (and closer to the original) that was built for a sister Baldwin 2-6-0 locomotive, "Glenbrook." As reported on February 24th, "...the boiler work is finally finished with the application of the new dry pipe at Sierra Metal Fabricators after the California Boiler Works came in and did the certified welding on the boiler required by the Cal-Osha boiler division inspectors." [Thanks o anderson] https://ncngrrmuseum.org/engine-5-restoration/

- Southern Pacific M-6 class 2-6-0 #1744 was purchased by the Pacific Locomotive Association, and they plan to restore her to operation. As of late September, "Our boiler contractor, Stockton Locomotive Works, has made some AWESOME progress on the firebox of the boiler for our Southern Pacific #1744. Most of the new sheets are welded in and most of the staybolt & rivet holes are drilled." #1744 hasn't run in quite a while, and I hope the PLA are able raise all the funding needed to return her back to steam. [Thanks David Dewey] https://www.ncry.org/donate/

- The Virginia & Truckee 2-6-0 “Lyon” is a full size standard gauge wood burning replica steam locomotive being built by the Mason City & Clear Lake Electric Railroad Historical Society. The locomotive was donated (earlier this year) to the Nevada State RR Museum at Carson City, NV for completion. I can only imagine how wonderful she will look when she is finished. [Thanks Mgoldman & Alexander D. Mitchell IV]

- Holmes Eureka Lumber No. 4, a two-truck Climax, is under restoration at the Roots of Motive Power, a railroad and logging museum in Northern California. They are hoping to have her operational in two years. Here's wishing them the best of luck.

- Wild Goose Railroad 2-truck Climax #3 "has been successfully retrieved from Alaska by Corry RAILS and arrived in Corry, PA, the home of all Climax locomotives, on October 16, 2020". Once warmer weather arrives, the plan is to begin sorting through all of the parts, evaluating the condition of everything, and then starting the restoration of "the only known original and nearly complete Climax Class "A", back to full steam operation". Good luck, guys. [Thanks Carl W] https://corryrails.com/

- Canadian National O-9-a class 0-6-0 #7312 is still undergoing her 1472 SDI at Strasburg, but it appears that there has been quite a bit of new development in this as of recently. Hopefully, she will run again one day soon.

- U.S. Army/Navy S100 class 0-6-0T #5002 began her restoration at the shop of Brett Goertemoeller, owner of BMG Railroad Contractors, LLC. They made fast progress early (including performing the ultrasound), and it looks like it might not take too long before she’s running again if things continue at this pace. [Thanks airforcerail] https://www.armysteam.com/

- U.S. Army S155 class 0-6-0 #4023 / Virginia Blue Ridge #9 / New Hope and Ivyland #9 / SMS #9 is still undergoing an extensive operational restoration at the SMS shops in Bridgeport, NJ. That being said, she passed her hydro early in 2020, her ash pan is just about finished, and the firebox doors are mounted. On August 8th, #9 was fired up for the first time since 1981. Congratulations, guys! Hopefully, it won't be much longer before we see her under power and working again. [Thanks Mgoldman]

- U.S. Army S155 class 0-6-0 / Virginia Blue Ridge Ry. / Morris County Central Railroad #4039 (VBR #5) is also making progress. The new boiler is almost completed over in Colorado, and the boiler tubes were shipped from Whippany to Colorado in 2019. The original plans were to install them once the boiler was shipped to Whippany and mounted on the frame, but that changed in 2018. A new cab has been constructed, and the tender has been completely rebuilt, along with all the appliances. Once the new (welded) boiler is mounted, the final assembly can take place. The most recent report states: "The new firebox has returned to Mammoth Boiler Works in Colorado and will soon be joined to the new barrel. Once that is done, the new tubes can be installed." [Thanks Al Holleuffer] (P.S. How have things been? I haven't heard from you in a few years.) https://www.dynamicticketsolutions.com/ ... ations.cfm

- Wanamaker, Kempton & Southern 0-6-0T #65 was taken into the shop on New Year's Day 2019, and it appears that she is going to be restored back to operation. Congratulations, WK&S! I'm so glad you're bringing her back to steam, and I hope her restoration goes by as smoothly as possible. Does anyone have an update on her they can share?

- Western Pacific S-34 class 0-6-0 #165 has its tender completed, and the boiler repairs are getting close to being completed at the Portola Railway Museum. On 11/12/21 and 11/13/21, the crew successfully test fired #165. Hopefully, it won’t be long before she’s running in 2022. [Thanks o anderson & rstabler] https://www.wplives.org/steam.html

- Mississippi Central (Wilmington & Western) 98 class 4-4-0 #98 is down for her 1472 SDI. Hopefully, it won't be too long before this beautiful "American" is running once again. Does anyone have any more current information on her 1472 SDI?

- San Antonio & Aransas Pass E-40 class 4-4-0 #60 should be further evaluated (and hopefully have her boiler ultrasounded) along with the newly acquired 2-truck Shay Oregon, Pacific & Eastern RR #112. {Personally, I hope I can see #60 operate in the not-so-distant future.} [Thanks RookieFireman]

- The Wiscasset, Waterville & Farmington Railway appears to be preparing to build a new steam locomotive (2-4-4T #11). Hopefully, they will be able to have this new locomotive constructed and operate one day. https://fundrazr.com/build11.2021?ref=a ... TCCtuP71ty

- Saint Louis, Iron Mountain & Southern 2-4-2 #5 has recently gotten new wind on getting her reassembled and cosmetically restoring her (with an operational restoration being possible at a later point). https://www.number5project.com/?fbclid= ... CsVa2UsEqQ

- Bock Lumber Company 1 class 0-4-4T #1 has finished up a multi-year restoration, and the Hoosier Valley Railroad Museum has now entered into a long-term agreement to operate #1. She will be the only operating standard-gauge Forney in North America. Well done, everyone. She looks beautiful, and I hope she makes a good name for herself.

- Wiscasset, Waterville & Farmington 0-4-4T #10's new boiler should be completed and installed in the near future. [Thanks elecuyer]

- Coronet Phosphate 0-4-2T #6 is under restoration at McHugh Locomotive in Fairless Hills, PA. Hopefully, her restoration won't take too long. Updates on her restoration can also be viewed in the thread "The Train the Wouldn't Die." [Thanks tomgears]

- New Hope Valley 0-4-0T #17 is very close to having her restoration finished and should return to service in the near future after being out of service for ~2 years while undergoing its mandated FRA work. [Thanks Evan] https://www.triangletrain.com/donate/

I know that AoSR is continuing to work on their locomotives, but I don't have a clear idea on where they stand with their projects at this time (with the possible exception of YW 2-8-2 #19). If anyone has more detailed information on any of these locomotives that they are safe to share, please feel more than welcome to do so.

When I first started making this list back in 2019, it contained only 14 steam locomotives under restoration to operation. Now, the list of locomotives returned to service/being restored/being rebuilt since the list started sits at well over 5× the original starting number. That was truly amazing, and it really brings a smile to my face to see so much steam moving towards operation again.

If there are any other steam locomotives that started (or are still undergoing) an operational restoration, please feel free to list which locomotive it is (and roughly where things stand, if you know). Likewise, if you know any additional details/updates (that can be shared) for any of the locomotives already mentioned, please feel free to inform me. We could always use more good news in regards to steam.

{Lastly, while it isn't currently being restored, U.S. Army / TVRM #610 was pushed into the shops around September 2018 for evaluation on the feasibility of possibly restoring her again. With no official word from TVRM (that I'm aware of at this time), I guess we'll see what happens.}

Maine Central 470's tender frame has been replaced onto fully restored tender trucks, with brake gear and plumbing completely rebuilt. Work continues on riveting the cab and tender tank.

Looks great other than DRGW 489 was completed in 2021 and was in service all last summer.

Best

Stathi

Santee River Hardwood Co. Heisler #3 is being disassembled at the Southern Forest Heritage Museum with a planned restoration in the beginning stages.

Just curious as to why we need the highlights from 2019 through 2021 in here, it's in the other 2021 thread, but seeing as how this is Steam in 2022, why do we need that older stuff again?

CTRC is preparing SP 2479 for a move out of the fairgrounds to Niles Canyon. Boiler is being prepared for separation from the running gear in anticipation of the move.

ASR is continuing to make steady progress on the final work on the firebox of Reading 2100. Half sleeves are being welded in place around the combustion chamber this month. Your continued donations are much appreciated and needed to allow us to maintain our momentum forward in 2022 to get her back in steam.

Rob Gardner

A correction to the original list, DRGW 489 was actually in service as an oil burner last year.

https://www.flickr.com/photos/96380166@ ... 648017862/

https://www.flickr.com/photos/96380166@ ... 648017862/

I have seen some rumors online about what the C&T thought of the oil conversion and what not, but for the purposes of this list it should be counted as having returned to steam in 2021 since it did see use actively on some Antonito-Osier runs.

Travis,

489 was primary power out of Antonito all summer and I never had a problem firing it. Our first test run with 12 cars at max speed (normal trains are 8 cars) I was able to lift the safety for a mile straight building water the whole time. The first trip on the Chama side it pulled maximum rated tonnage with a clear stack up against the safeties and maintaining the schedule and water. The biggest issue is that a good coal fireman is not automatically a good oil fireman or vice versa. Lots of learning occurred last year, and I’m sure lots of learning will continue moving forward. As for the engine, it performed well and did everything I could have hoped for.

Best

Stathi

Thanks for chiming in. It can be admittedly a bit all over the place trying to figure out from the outside looking in what opinions were on the oil conversion, especially since people can get so heated about it online from railfans and foamers. So I am glad to hear from those who have run it that 489 ran well! Sure seemed to be a good running engine when I saw it in person.

That's a good question, bigjim4life. Basically, I have 2 answers to offer:

1) After each year ends (and consequently each corresponding thread stops getting updated), the thread for that year doesn't appear to viewed much after the new year starts. So, if I left what was achieved in each year just in the thread for that year, it would be easier to forget what locomotives have been brought back and what all has been done to help steam preservation continue to grow and prosper.

2) Given how tough the past couple of years have been for a lot of us, I figured we could use some additional happiness any place we can get it. Personally, it makes me happy and smile when I think of the steam locomotives that are still operating today, all of the ones that have recently been restored to operation, and all of the ones that are actively getting worked on to return to operation. If seeing all that we've done in the last couple of years (even in spite of all of the challenges we've had to try to work through and overcome) can make me smile and feel good, then there's a good chance that it would make others feel the same way.

Hopefully, one, or both, of these answers make sense as to why I include highlights of the previous years achievements.

So, it appears that the Locomotive No. 5 Conservation Project (the group looking over St. Louis, Iron Mountain & Southern 2-4-2 #5 "Shelby Brown") have decided to go forward with an operational restoration of "Shelby Brown" rather than a cosmetic restoration with an operation restoration later down the road.

https://www.facebook.com/number5restora ... 0865077431

I wish them all the very best of luck with the restoration, and I hope we will get to see #5 running under her own power in the not-so-distant future.

Former LIRR #35 G5’s 10 wheeleris still undergoing a static restoration at the Oyster Bay RR Museum on Long Island NY.
An upcoming contract with FMW Solutions will re-start the completion of our running gear after we stopped all work with our previous contractor.
Steamloco35

Georgetown Loop 12 is currently undergoing a running gear rebuild, has not operated since 2018 when it last ran at midwest central in Iowa, returned to Colorado in 2019, but had not operated due to needing running gear work and the crew being bust finishing engine 40 that same year, then covid happening the next 2 years after that cutting into shop crew, and money. Drivers are currently out, so it seems this work has finally started. From talking to friends, the goal seems to be running her this year, giving the loop 3 operable engines

When announced several years ago, this was to be operational restoration, then later cosmetic only (as I presume the realities of just what sad shape the #5 is in became apparent and the price tags rolled in), and now its to be an operational project again? Not a good way to fundraise if you ask me, since the end goal seems to have changed repeatedly.

I remember visiting the website for the #5 restoration, their about us page listed a number of teenager/college aged guys as the 'directors' for this latest cosmetic-now-opererational-restoration. Revisiting, it seems they removed the naming of whos-who... interesting. It seems to me that this is effort is the dream of some local young folks. Not a bad thing, but I hope they understand the virtually impossible stands before them, and hope they get some experienced folks on board to guide and assist. Their work is certainly cut out for them.

Correction: The restoration effort was not really restarted on the Western Coal and Coke #1 at Mid Continent. The only work I know of is a member started poking around on the front truck. Same individual has been widdling at building up and machining the front truck driving boxes. This mild effort has been ongoing for maybe 5-6 years. It is one guy doing what he can in his spare time. It is not a concentrated effort by the MC. Unless there is something going on behind the scenes there is not much happening with this loco. We {members} would like to finish the front truck so we can but wheels under it again, but I am out of the loop now and one man without a budget to speak of can't do to much. Unless a donor pops up with some big donation it will probably sit for quite a while longer. Crying shame but it takes money and the boiler work is going to have to be farmed out and then a qualified mechanic to put it all back together again. I think it would be more accurate to say "nothing is happening". It could all change in an instant but that is my take at this time. Thanks for your efforts in reporting. Regards, John.