For most of this summer, Reading FP7s 902 and 903 have been on display with a short freight train on Steamtown's display track. They have been visiting in Scranton since 2008. When Steamtown holds its RailFest in September, this track usually displays Amtrak's equipment for the Fest. So the Reading units were moved last Thursday.
Performing the move was Canadian National 2-8-2 3254. Here we see her backing from the turntable through the gates to the display track. This was an added bonus to travelers to see steam in action. It all took place after 3:00 when she normally sits on the turntable.
Crossing the traffic circle, she backs to pick up the FP7s.
Almost there.
Moving these units was not easy. The hand brake was set, and the cabs were locked. They had to be dragged a bit through the curves.
54 is putting on quite a smoke show.
Pulling forward past the traffic circle to her next display area.
Clearing the pavement to sit on the bricks.
And the point where they now sit. My understanding is that the Reading cabs will move to Hamburg, PA sometime after RailFest ends.
That's what I have to offer this week. Please add to the Midweek fun with your own photos of railroading in the Real World.
See you next week.
Working a ballast train this afternoon.
