Nearly Gone #15405

The Story

A totally dilapidated Shay locomotive sits in a rusty pile because most of the heavy wooden frame has rotted away over time and exposure. The front coupler droops down because the large wooden cross beam at the front of the locomotive is gone to the elements. The cab made of wood is gone too, with some of the remnants deposited into the tender. At all times, it is unusual to see a Shay locomotive anywhere because of their rarity. It’s a shame to see one in this condition, and hopefully, it is on the restoration list here at Steamtown.

It’s easy to identify a Shay locomotive by its unique vertical steam cylinders, seen here along the side. Another standout feature of the Shay are the geared drive wheels and the spline drive shaft that powers them. These can be seen here too.

Interestingly, this picture also shows an old wooden boxcar behind the engine and a steam engine tender with the mechanical coal stoker connection exposed, which, by their out-of-sight nature, are rarely seen too.

Location: Steamtown in Scranton, Pennsylvania.  © Andrew Dierks