Weekend Steam: Steampunk Motorcycle!

 Many Thanks, Merle for spotting this one! It took a bit of genius level thought to put this together.

Poetry In Motion...

 Steamboatin'!

Thanks, Merle!

Weekend Steam: Kinsey Chime Whistles

 Thanks, Merle!

Weekend Steam III: Our Modern World Could Not Exist Without The Steam Shovel!

 Thanks, Merle!

If you like steam shovels, you really should plan a trip to Rollag!

Weekend Steam: Brenda Stant, Engineers and Engines Magazine Hits A Home Run!

Sixty years ago Stan Mathews of Mt. Pleasant, Iowa went to California and brought back the Number 9 Shay Locomotive from West Side Lumber Company. The current issue of Engineers and Engines has an in depth article about Number 9, and if you don't already subscribe, you need to call Brenda and start your subscription. The article is packed with photos and history that most people never learn. Number 9 has been hauling passengers on the Midwest Central and the Georgetown Loop for more years than it pulled logs out of the California forests.   

I was just 15 years old when the Shay arrived at Old Threshers and the Midwest Central. I was so thrilled that I paid $10 for a share in the railroad and got a lifetime pass, which I still have, just in case I get back to Old Threshers again. I even rode around the grounds once in the cab with Stan Mathews at the throttle. 

Here's your info to subscribe to Brenda's wonderful magazine:

While you are on the phone with Brenda, be sure to purchase the new steam engine calendar for 2027!

Engineers and Engines is my primary source for keeping up with the shows that are around us. Next weekend is American Threshermen at Pinckneyville, and Pontiac and Sycamore shows happen soon. Old Threshers at Mt. Pleasant is September 3-7. Boonville, Indiana will be coming up October 10. 

Zeke and me with Number 9 in 1984.

Weekend Steam II: Beading Flues

The flue roller turns as the tapered center is pulled in by threads. Beading was not always done, but it sure makes an operator feel more secure. 

Out in the field, rolling and beading were both done by muscle power. Air hammer makes this task much easier! Thanks, Merle!

Weekend Steam: Spark Show At Mt. Pleasant!

 Thanks for spotting, Merle!

Weekend Steam III: 4014 and 2102

 

Weekend Steam: Big Boy In Indiana!

 Knox, Indiana

Argos, Indiana

Big Boy Crosses The Missippi!

 

Big Boy In Iowa

 Courtesy of Chester!

Weekend Steam: Big Boy Is On The Move!

Weekend Steam: No Controversy In My Mind!

 The only way you can keep antiques like this original is to never operate them. Steam engines need flues, new grates, new staybolts, new flue sheets, new crown sheets, effective brakes, and on and on. I am glad to see old machinery restored and running for new generations to learn from and enjoy.  Tastes change. Back in the 1960s the gas engine hobby was just taking off and restorers mostly wanted their vintage engines to look like new. Lots of original paint and patina were stripped off for new paint. That changed, and now most want the barn fresh, dull paint, old grease, and rust look. Don't fret over how original the machines are.  Just be thankful that dedicated hobbyists spent the time, effort and money to make these treasure run again. 

Tuesday Torque: Galloping Goose!

 Another great topic from Merle! Thank You, Merle!

Weekend Steam II: Minne Out In The Wild

 Many Thanks to Eaton Rapids Joe!

Weekend Steam: Southern Pacific Daylight

 

Thank You, Merle! Great Suggestion!

Weekend Steam: 1770 French Cugnot

 I remember reading about this leap in technology when I was still in grade school. It is amazing that it worked with that heavy pot boiler hanging on the front end!

Weekend Steam: Let's Make It A Steam Lorrie Weekend!

 Thanks, Merle!

Weekend Steam: Another Steam Lorrie

 

Thanks, Merle!

Weekend Steam: Sandaoling Coal Mine Railway

 Contrary to the caption on this video, the engine is not ejecting cinders. The Sandaoling coal mine is low quality coal that throws lots of cinders when the engine is in a hard pull.  It is dramatic!  Many Thanks, Merle!