I found some photos of NKP 624 on RR Pictures Archive.net http://www.rrpicturearchives.net/locopicture.aspx?id=6000
It was so heart breaking to see this locomotive go from pristine condition to a rusting hulk in 61 years. But thats what happens when a locomotive is donated to a city and that city parks it in an open lot with absolutely no shelter of even fencing to protect it. I do hope that there is enough left to 624 for the FWRHS to restore, at least cosmetically.
Also, I would like to echo what "jumper" said in his post on the Restoring a steam locomotive for operation wasteful? thread. I do believe that restoring an historic locomotive is a noble act. I salute the FWRHS.
Shovel all the coal in, gotta keep 'em rolling! John.
I wonder how they are going to move it by rail, on its own wheels or flat car?
http://www.nwitimes.com/news/local/lake/hammond/hammond-council-may-get-small-pay-boost/article_47989273-4b45-5652-bf10-52919bc82744.html?utm_medium=social&utm_source=facebook&utm_campaign=user-share
The keepers of infamous NKP 765 are recieving yet another Nickel Plate legend, 2-8-2 No. 624.
The FWRHS released this statement on Facebook:
"The Mikado-type locomotives were used in Nickel Plate freight service for over three decades and were the original workhorses for the railroad before Berkshires like the 765 came online. No. 624, pictured here, traveled more than one and a half million miles - the equivalent of more than 60 trips around the earth - before being donated to the city of Hammond in 1955. We think it could stand to go a few more. Stay tuned."
I guess we'll just have to wait and see if the engine is in good enough shape, but it seems they would like to get it running again. Very Exciting.
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