It was with much anticipation and uncertainty of the coming day’s outcome that I left for the Fullerton Amtrak Station to begin the chase of the San Diego Steam Special II and the 3751. I was already an hour or so behind schedule and as I packed the truck I realized that this trip was going to be different. Despite being aware of this special run since last year I found myself unprepared due to a series of family illnesses.
I normally travel with my best friend and rail scout, Debbie, my wife. Although she was willing to accompany me on this trip I felt she needed some rest so I fired up the Cummins diesel and headed out alone…
SOCAL - Get Ready! Here She Comes!
This weekend, Saturday and Sunday, (May 1-2, 2010), southern Californians will have a rare opportunity to see a famous steam locomotive, the San Bernardino Railroad Historical Society’s Santa Fe 3751 as she powers the Central Coast Railway Club and the Pacific Locomotive Association joint special - the San Diego Steam Special-II…
You've Seen Yesterday, Now See the Future
You may have seen the numerous videos and coverage of Union Pacific’s legendary steam locomotive, UP No. 844 which is currently on duty leading the Valley Eagle Heritage Tour train or perhaps you are one of the lucky ones who saw her firsthand, either track side or on display during the tour. Maybe even you have fond childhood memories of the steam behemoths roaming the country during the days of yesteryear. If you have then you will agree that it is truly a sight to behold. What amazing machines steam engines are.
Now On May 8, 2010, you can see the newest in railroad motive-power technology, the Generator-Set (or Genset) switcher which is Union Pacific’s latest environmentally friendly design to join its fleet…
2010 National Train Day Events Map and Listing
It is a rare opportunity for you and your kids to get an up close and personal look at various aspects of railroading and railroads, both past and present, in America. This is a day that rail organizations, societies, companies, and communities share the magic and their love for trains.
I put together the following map to help you identify those celebrations and events that will be happening in your neighborhood so you can take advantage of this opportunity and make your plans today…
Video of Union Pacific No. 844 on Display in Houston
Two Must See Videos of the Valley Eagle Heritage Tour and UP No. 844
More Cool Videos of UP's Valley Eagle Heritage Tour Train
Union Pacific's No. 844 Suffers a Seized Bearing
One of the main reasons that the railroads switched from steam-powered locomotives to diesel-electric locomotives was the high level of maintenance that the steam giants require. With thousands of moving parts, most under tremendous strain and pressure, parts are due to wear rather rapidly. In fact, steam locomotives typically require a good oiling and greasing of all critical components every several hundred miles or so…
See an Eagle Soar
Union Pacific's Valley Eagle Tour Update
Second Chance for 3751 at San Bernardino Railroad Days
According to the San Bernardino Railroad Histroical Society’s (SBRHS) web site, one week after the Santa Fe 3751 leads the San Diego Steam Special II from Los Angeles to San Diego and back, the 3751 will make a trip between Los Angeles and San Bernardino as part of San Bernardino’s Railroad Days & Bicentennial Celebration…
A Union Pacific Living Legend Stretches Her Legs On an Eight State Tour
Union Pacific’s famed and historic steam locomotive, No. 844, will make an eight state, 28-day tour to south Texas in celebration of the Union Pacific Railroad’s heritage. The entire trip will encompass more than 3,500 miles. The tour is known as the “Valley Eagle Heritage Tour” and takes it name from…
National Train Day - Discover and Learn About Railroads and Trains
On May 8, 2010, in cities all across the land, there is going to be a celebration of America’s love for trains. Amtrak is hosting, with participation from cities and organizations, the 3rd annual National Train Day to commemorate the 141st anniversary of the first transcontinental railroad completion on May 10, 1869…