015: Reading 2100 – Kelly Lynch

Photo courtesy of Kelly Lynch/American Steam Railroad.

Ever since it was announced that Reading T1 #2100 would be restored to operation, many of you have raised questions about the condition of the locomotive, what the restoration will require, and what the future of the locomotive holds.  Kelly Lynch joins us to answer these and discuss how we can keep steam restoration alive!

News
Today is the 141st Kentucky Derby, and three railroads have taken their Office Car Specials to the races:  Norfolk Southern, CSX, and R. J. Corman.  Click here for a video of this year’s NS OCS, and keep your eyes peeled to the message boards to see these trains return home.

The Union Depot Tower in Joliet IL was taken out of service last Friday.  The venerable tower is being replaced by centralized dispatcher control.  While this may be more efficient, tower operations continue to fade into history.

Reading 2100 (3:23)

Known for his work with the Fort Wayne Railroad Historical Society and Nickel Plate Road 765, Kelly joins us to speak on behalf of the American Steam Railroad organization.  He discusses Reading 2100’s unusual history and describes the condition the locomotive was in upon initial inspection.  ASR plans to restore this locomotive alongside Frisco #1352, and Kelly explains how these projects will be balanced.  He also describes his goals for the videos he has produced for the campaign, one of which I have included below:

Currently, 2100 is in transit from eastern Washington state to Cleveland Ohio, where it will be restored at the roundhouse of the Midwest Railway Preservation Society.  Kelly provides some details about the current plan for restoration, the potential excursion opportunities, and why volunteering keeps preservation of these locomotives alive.

Click here to see more about the Reading 2100, and click here to help them reach their goal!

Question of the Day (49:38)

Tell me a story about your favorite mainline steam excursion ride.   Let me know and I will respond to your comments in our next episode.

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