Santa Fe Steam Locomotive #2926 Prepares for Historic Journey
One-Mile Trek on Its Own Power for the First Time Since 1956
Contact:
Bob DeGroft
(505) 977-1028
rdegroft@gmail.com
ALBUQUERQUE, NM – The New Mexico Steam Locomotive & Railroad Historical Society, also referred to as New Mexico Heritage Rail, has announced that the Atchison Topeka & Santa Fe (ATSF) Steam Locomotive 2926, the world’s largest operational rigid frame steam locomotive, will make its first public journey under its own power in 67 years on Saturday, May 6, 2023.
The refurbished steam powered locomotive and tender will make a half-mile trek from its restoration site located at New Mexico Steam Locomotive, 1833 8th Street NW, Albuquerque, NM 87102 to Tractor Brewing Company Wells Park, at 1800 4th Street NW, Albuquerque, NM 87102. The half-mile trek will take place on the New Mexico Rail Runner Express Albuquerque Subdivision – Sawmill Spur between 8th Street and 3rd Street starting Saturday, May 6, at 10:30 a.m.; ATSF 2926 will make its return journey to its restoration site starting at 4:00 p.m.
“This event will undoubtedly bring back memories for those who remember the 2926 being in Coronado Park,” says John Roberts, president of New Mexico Heritage Rail. “Countless volunteers are dedicating their passion for railroading to bring this magnificent machine back to its former glory. Our event on May 6th will be a time to celebrate their accomplishments.”
New Mexico Heritage Rail is also working with state and city officials to restore the turntable located at the Albuquerque Rail Yards, near the Alvarado Transportation Center. Once this restoration is completed it will provide a public display area for Steam Locomotive No. 2926 and for future community events.
A fundraiser to continue restoration and operation efforts will take place following locomotive 2926’s journey to Tractor Brewing. The fundraiser is hosted by the New Mexico Heritage Rail and Tractor Brewing and will be held at the Tractor Brewing Wells Park from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. This is an all-ages event that is free and open to the public.
About the New Mexico Steam Locomotive & Railroad Historical Society
The New Mexico Steam Locomotive & Railroad Historical Society is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization. To learn more about ATSF 2926, visit https://2926.us.
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