No. 734

In 1991, the Western Maryland Scenic Railroad was shopping for a steam locomotive. There are only two surviving Western Maryland steam locomotives: The “Big 6” Shay at Cass Scenic Railroad and 4-6-2 no. 202 on display in Hagerstown, MD. Neither were available or even suitable for the railroad’s needs. Recently discovered files indicate that the purchase of a new SY class 2-8-2 from China was considered, but this did not materialize. Instead, it was decided to acquire LS&I no. 34 and “kitbash” it into a locomotive resembling a Western Maryland 2-8-0. The engine was just what the railroad needed…at the time. When the locomotive returned to service in 1993, it looked quite different from her freight-hauling LS&I days.

Several cosmetic changes and a tender from a New York Central 4-8-2 “Mohawk” completely transformed the appearance of the engine into a suitable stand-in for the long-gone Western Maryland 2-8-0’s. Except for a period out of service in the early 2000s for retubing and other repairs, no. 734 gave the railroad many years of service until it was withdrawn in 2016 for the federally mandated 1472-day inspection.

 Towards the end of no. 734’s recent working period, it was determined that it would need an extensive overhaul. Over the years, the day-to-day operations of the Western Maryland Scenic Railroad had changed and began to outgrow the engine’s tractive effort. Schedules were more demanding, and trains were heavier. No. 734 was often pressed far beyond its normal operating capabilities or needed a diesel helper which required a second crew and generally increased daily operating costs.

The 734 is in line for a full rebuild from the railhead to the smoke stack. As an icon of the Cumberland and Frostburg communities, the plan for the 734 is a full rebuild, pending funding. We cannot do it without your help! Let’s get Mountain Thunder rolling again!