Grace, power, speed and beauty. These four words can be used to describe steam locomotives of any age and size. For more than 100 years, these monsters of iron and steel provided America with a vital coast to coast link, and could get anything just about anywhere in between. The mighty hand of fate, however, would not stay the executioners blade nor the relentless march of progress; many fine examples of railroad history were lost to the scrappers torch when diesels became the primary motive power of the railroads. When faced with their greatest challenge, the steam engines overcame in the same way that they always had; perseverance. Dedicated groups of individuals negotiated for, bought and saved engines that otherwise would have been lost to history. Over time, some of these groups rebuilt the engines of their choice to showcase a bygone era, ensuring that the many generations to follow will know the sights, sounds and stories of the steam locomotive.
DISCLAIMER; I am a member of the Illinois Railway Museum and a volunteer at that establishment, as well as a handful of other not-for-profits and groups associated with steam preservation. What is posted on these pages is not endorsed in any way by the Illinois Railway Museum or any other organization. This webpage is meant to serve as a resource for those interested in the preservation of the steam locomotive. Links to various organization's webpages will be posted here to further that end only.
DISCLAIMER; I am a member of the Illinois Railway Museum and a volunteer at that establishment, as well as a handful of other not-for-profits and groups associated with steam preservation. What is posted on these pages is not endorsed in any way by the Illinois Railway Museum or any other organization. This webpage is meant to serve as a resource for those interested in the preservation of the steam locomotive. Links to various organization's webpages will be posted here to further that end only.