I guess the question we all have to ask is whether or not we'd rather see her stuffed and mounted in a museum or out on the line for future generations to enjoy. As a kid in the 60s, the "Three Spot" is the locomotive that got me interested in steam engines. I for one am glad that the CSRM elected to take action that would ensure the locomotive would be around for a long time. The old lap-seam boiler had quite a number of weak spots and recertification was really problematic. As for the tender cistern, when the pulled her apart, the baffles inside had completely disintegrated. Both articles have been preserved. Number 3's situation is not unlike several other historic locomotives such as the B&O Museum's "William Mason" or the Western & Atlantic "General". All have been very heavily "shopped" over the years, but for me, they are still historic treasures, not replicas.

I was fortunate to see the Three in action last fall and even got an opportunity to ride in the cab with the crew. She's a gorgeous locomotive and she sounds fantastic charging up the hill from Rock Quarry. The crew there is really proud of the recent restoration, and rightfully so.

Just one old guy's opinion..... :)