Steam & Excursion > You Never Know What You May Find Hiding Among The Giants!

In April, 1937 when one was wandering the Southern Pacific yard track surrounding the shops in Sacramento, you would see all kinds of steam power waiting there, ready to return to service.  Most of the steam locomotives would be large 4-8-4's, 2-10-2's and articulated Cab Forwards. However, hidden among these steam giants, if one were careful, you would find this little polished gem. 

There on one of the ready track we see the famous "C. P. Huntington"  locomotive that represents the very earliest days of the Central Pacific.  After her active service was completed, she spent a few years in weed spraying service on the SP before finally being restored to her original glory as we see here.  Here unusual 4-2-4T wheel arrangement was sometimes referred to as a "Bicycle" wheel arrangement.

While not nearly as large as the modern steam motive power surrounding her, little #1 still demands notice and respect in her own right.

Martin



Edited 6 time(s). Last edit at 05/25/20 10:00 by LoggerHogger.

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A historic gem.
Bob

In 1937 it still did not have an automatic coupler or signs of air brakes, with brake shoes on the driver.  It must have been put under the classification of M of W department which the ICC had no jurisdiction to review or inspect.  Being used for weed spraying fits the M of W.  Is it in the California State Museum now?  Thanks for posting the amazing photo.

The locomotive that you see in the 1937 photo is essentially the cosmetic restoration that was done  in 1914 for the 1915 Panama-Pacific Exposition.   It was originally Central Pacific #3, before becoming SP #1.

Yes restored, but still the same Locomotive.

Posted from Android

Here is an undated image of the CP Huntington in Santa Clara.   From the collection of Bill Wulf.

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Why wouldn't that be classified a 4-2-4T ?

Yes it is in the CSRM indoors.
 

Here she as Central Pacific #3 on the first day she entered servoice.

Martin

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Here is an old film that I acquired many years ago showing the locomotive under power:
https://www.trainorders.com/discussion/read.php?11,1366864

 

Todd Clark
Canyon Country, CA
Trainorders.com