The restoration of Locomotive No. 12 has already taken us through careful disassembly and early repairs. While much of the work is still ahead, the next few months will be all about putting the pieces back together, step by step, until this historic engine is ready to steam again.
What Comes Next for the Boiler
The upcoming focus will be on rebuilding the firebox, replacing the flues, and installing hundreds of new staybolts. Once this phase is complete, the boiler will be filled with water and undergo a hydrostatic test to check its strength and confirm there are no leaks. The test pressure will be set by the state boiler inspector and is expected to be around 180 psi.
Only after passing the hydro test will No. 12 move on to its steam test, which ensures the boiler performs under operating conditions. Once both tests are successful, the engine will receive its insulation and jacket.
Reassembly Ahead
With the boiler complete, the locomotive can begin the long process of coming back together. Reassembly will take months, and each piece will be carefully checked and adjusted before the locomotive is considered ready.
A Sneak Peek at Railroad Heritage Weekend
While this major work hasn’t yet begun, visitors to Railroad Heritage Weekend (August 23–24) will get a special chance to see No. 12 in the shop mid-restoration and even preview images from a recent 3D scan. That scan gave us a highly detailed look at the locomotive before fabrication and assembly.
Every milestone brings No. 12 closer to its return to steam. For now, the anticipation is building, and Railroad Heritage Weekend is the perfect time to see the story unfolding in person.