4 Historic Steam Locomotives in Arizona

Like many western states, Arizona has a long and storied history with railroads. The majority of the lines built in Arizona were privately run by mining and lumber companies. Many of the locomotives which ran these lines are now preserved in parks and museums around the state.

One website I found mentioned that there are 28 locomotives on display throughout Arizona. This is by no means a complete list, but here are four historic steam locomotives that I have run across in my travels around Arizona.

Southwest Lumber Mills Engine #12 - Flagstaff, AZ

 
At the Pioneer Museum in Flagstaff, Arizona, you can see this historic locomotive on display as you drive by on US 180 to or from the Grand Canyon. Engine #12 was built by Baldwin Locomotive Works in Pennsylvania in 1929. This standard gauge locomotive has a 2-6-6-0 configuration and was run by the Hammond Lumber Company in Oregon and California.

Read Entire Post >>

ADOT Studies PHX to Tucson Passenger Rail

Building on the success of the Valley Metro Light Rail system, the Arizona Department of Transportation is looking to lay more tracks in more places. The latest idea proposes an intercity passenger rail system between Phoenix and Tucson.

I think the idea of a passenger train between Phoenix and Tucson is a FANTASTIC idea. Have you ever made the drive between these two cities along Interstate 10? It is remarkably boring. I would love to just buy a ticket, close my eyes and take a rest, and wake up at my destination.

Read Entire Post >>