Since April, Humboldt Bay's THA has moved seven locomotives to their 1893 vintage Samoa Roundhouse, including one all the way from Sacramento. Needless to say in this economy they are in need of both morale and financial support. What they have been through in recent years would have killed most any organization, yet they hang in there and even broaden support, although local politics always seems to keep them one step forward and two steps back. They now have a full roundhouse with one engine stored in the old Hammond Lumber machine shop. 23 log cars plus yarders, a steam saw mill, and all parts and pieces are stored elsewhere south of Eureka. Their locomotive roster is most impressive.........
Arcata & Mad River 2 truck Shay #7
Hammond Lumber 3 truck shay #33
Hammond Lumber 2-8-2 #15
Pacific Lumber 2-6-2 #29
Dolbeer & Carson 2-6-2 #3
Pacific Lumber 2-8-2T #37 (Currently being repaired in Strasburg Pa)
Bear Harbor Lumber 2-4-2T #2, 1898 (in pieces)
Mutual Plywood #54 (a 1927 2 truck Hiesler converted to diesel)
Arcata & Mad River 44 tonner (currently stored at Humboldt Flakeboard north of Arcata)
The 44 tonner and the diesel Heisler are the only operable locos last I heard. They also have a former SP heavy-weight coach stored at Simpson's bayside plant. The best that can be said for most of this treasure is that it's under cover and away from the weather for the first time. July 25, August 29, September 26, THA will be offering rides on the A&MR crew speeder over a two mile piece of NCRA track as a demontration. It's by reservation only (707-441-1960) the Friday before. $4.00 donation is requested. If you are up there during those dates drop by and offer your support and check out the collection. You will be impressed.
ARD