Many of you who have visited Steamtown in Northeast Pennsylvania know that there have been for some time two large operating steam engines; Canadian National #3254 a 2-8-2 and Canadian Pacific #2317 a 4-6-2. CN #3254 does most of the excursions while CP #2317 has been relegated to yard duty and short shuttle from Steamtown to the former DL&W Station due to some issues with the engine (I believe I heard she was pretty hard on the track due to some wheel issues).

There is a Baldwin 0-6-0 switcher which should be coming back on line shortly as well.

CP #2317 is due for her federally mandated major rebuild and rumor had it that Saturday, December 5th, 2009 would be her last operating day, possibly for decades (or longer!). Steamtown hopes to eventually rebuild and run her again but they will first move forward and complete the restoration of a Boston and Maine 4-6-2 #3713, finally providing an American example of steam at this American national park.

I heard some good news, however - some days were "saved" for CP #2317 and it is hoped she will be in operation one last time during next years NRHS Convention at Steamtown.

Here are some pics of her the last day of the season on a wintry December 5th, 2009:


CP #2317 seen along with an overview of the city of Scranton from above in near blizzard like conditions

CP #2317 at the former DL&W Mattes Street Tower

CP #2317 passing by the loading platform heading off towards the former DL&W Station

CP #2317 in an action zoom pan - Engineer Chris LaBar gets a wave from the conductor signaling the all clear to proceed

/Mitch