Following the successful restoration of the Sara Kidder rail bus during 2005-6, the museum’s shop crew embarked on an ambitious new project: the ground-up construction of a fully operational steam locomotive. 

The locomotive’s design is reminiscent of an 1880’s industrial engine.  While the cab’s design evokes the lines of a Baldwin, the frame, running gear, and stack strongly resemble a Porter.  A significant departure from tradition was made in the design of the steam plant.  Instead of a problematic fire-tube boiler (with its high maintenance and mandated inspections), steam will be produced by a modern steam generator.  Essentially a water-tube boiler on steroids, the power plant will produce huge volumes steam on demand without need of a pressurized vessel.  It will require only about five minutes to fire up and the same amount of time to shut down.  Fueled by propane, the boiler will be clean burning, economical to operate, and won’t present a fire hazard while operating in these Sierra foothills.  

The 13 foot-long locomotive will take three years, 5,000 volunteer hours, and $35,000 in material to complete.  We've acquired initial funding and work has already begun by a shop crew who have the enthusiasm and expertise needed to complete the project.  We are asking the public for financial support, so if you would like to participate in this project, please consider making a donation.

Donations in any amount will go directly into the project.  Donors of $50.00 or more will receive a brass commemorative plaque and a semi-annual progress report.  We acknowledge all donations and they are tax deductible.

Please make your check payable to “NCNCRR Locomotive Fund”.  Our mailing address is:

Nevada  County Narrow Gauge Railroad  Museum

PO Box 2392

Nevada City, CA  95959

Specifications

Type: 0-4-0    Gauge: 36"

Weight: 8,000 lbs.   Tractive Effort: 1,300 lbs.

Wheel Base: Engine, 13'-0"   Driving, 56"

Boiler: Forced draft steam generator, 135 psig

Fuel: Propane, 400,000 BTU/hr

Cylinders: Diameter, 5.0"  Stroke, 12.0"

Valve Gear: Baker (Inside admission)