The locomotive and train, led by Norfolk Southern's New York Central heritage unit No. 1066, departed Elkhart, Indiana at 10:45 AM this morning, Tuesday, September 15th. The crew made several stops during the trip to take temperature readings and inspect the locomotive. Despite being a machine that has not rolled on the mainline in 40 years, the engine did not protest. Of course, months of hard work went into preparing the locomotive for this moment and ensuring the smooth trip that occurred today. All of this follows years of negotiations and discussions to entertain a new future for the locomotive in the first place – an effort that started back in 2021!

​

This work would not have been possible without your help! You're receiving this message as a result of supporting the American Steam Locomotive Project – so named for the American Locomotive Company.  Now, the good work can continue in our restoration shop, where 3001 will be indoors for the first time since the 1950s. We'll be in touch with more coverage of today's events, but for now, let's celebrate the end of a major milestone and the start of a new chapter!

We have additional announcements and news regarding our shop expansion coming soon, but remember, our goal for 2026 is to raise $300,000 to keep up the momentum on the project. Our internal goal includes having enough funds to keep materials, volunteers, and contractors working year-round.

​

​Support the Restoration of No. 3001

 

In relief!

Kelly Lynch
Executive Director
Fort Wayne Railroad Historical Society
The American Locomotive Project​​