Another memory --

In the summer of 1953, while my parents and I were traveling on vacation, we spent a night in Monterey. My father was somewhat interested in trains, and I, at twelve years of age, had become a total nut for steam locomotives. I was well aware of the Del Monte, and in the evening, without much prodding, my dad took me to Pacific Grove to have a look.

I need to mention, that I was particularly fond of the SP Pacific locomotives. And to me, the SP P6 was the most beautiful engine ever created. But our home was in the Los Angeles area, from where Pacifics were long gone.

Arriving in Pacific Grove, we were greeted by the 2454, which had been turned and coupled to the train, ready for the early morning departure. The engine watchman invited us to join him in the cab, which we did for quite a while. The fellow was very friendly, giving us a tour of the cab, and the radiant warmth of the backhead felt good in the cool evening air.

We came back early the following morning, and watched the train move forward to the station, load passengers, and depart.

65 years later, that is still a very fond memory!