Monday, August 5, 2024
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join up Tweetsie Railroad August 24 and 25 in celebration of the Golden Age of Steam at its annual Railroad Heritage Weekend.
Historical Significance of Locomotive No. 12:
The Tweetsie Railroad’s locomotive number 12, often referred to as “Tweetsie”, is a narrow-gauge steam locomotive with a rich history dating back to 1917 when it was built by the Baldwin Locomotive Works in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. This 3-foot gauge locomotive originally operated on the East Tennessee and Western North Carolina Railroad (ET&WNC), in the mountainous regions between Tennessee and North Carolina. No. 12 is one of the few remaining narrow-gauge steam locomotives in the United States and holds the distinction of being the only remaining engine from the ET&WNC line. Its preservation and continued operation make it an iconic symbol of the early 20th century steam age in the Appalachian region.
Restoration and Conservation:
After the ET&WNC Railroad ceased operations in the 1950s, locomotive No. 12 was acquired by the Tweetsey Railroad, a heritage theme park that opened in 1957 in Blowing Rock, North Carolina. The locomotive underwent extensive restoration, allowing it to be returned to working condition. It serves as the star attraction of the park’s scenic railway. Over the years, dedicated teams have worked tirelessly to maintain and maintain the locomotive, ensuring that it continues to operate safely and efficiently. Restoration efforts included rebuilding her boilers, refurbishing engine components and updating her systems while keeping her historic integrity intact.
Educational experience for visitors:
Today, locomotive number 12 offers visitors a unique opportunity to experience the golden age of steam travel. The engine pulls passenger cars through the scenic Blue Ridge Mountains, offering a nostalgic tour that highlights the engineering marvels of the past. Along with scenic rides, the Tweetsie Railroad provides educational exhibits and live demonstrations that illustrate the history of the locomotive and the importance of steam railroads in American industrial development. Locomotive No. 12 serves not only as a living museum but also as a dynamic educational tool, bringing history alive for thousands of visitors each year.
“We look forward to this event every year,” said Chris Robbins No Tweetsie Railroad. “It’s a unique celebration that highlights the park’s history, and a century of narrow-gauge steam locomotive heritage that began with the East Tennessee & Western North Carolina Railroad (ET&WNC).”
This is the only time of the year when both of the park’s narrow-gauge steam engines are running simultaneously. Locomotive No. 12, “Tweetsie,” will pull vintage 1870s coach cars recreating an authentic ET&WNC railroad experience. Meanwhile, No. 190 locomotive, “Yukon Queen,A separate train will pull up to take guests on a traditional Wild West adventure. On Sunday morning, both locomotives No. 12 and No. 190 will run in tandem as a classic “double-header”.
“If you love trains, this is a weekend you don’t want to miss,” adds Robbins. In addition to the train ride, guests are invited to visit the Tweetsie Railroad’s Locomotive Shop and Memorabilia Room. “This is the one time of year when we allow guests to enter the shop to gain insight into all that goes into keeping these historic engines running.”