Monday, August 5, 2024
reading time: 2 minutes
Join Tweety Railway Celebrating the golden age of steam at the annual Railway Heritage Weekend on August 24th and 25th.
Historical significance of locomotive No. 12:
Tweetsie Railroad Locomotive No. 12, often referred to as “Twitsie,” is a narrow gauge steam engine with a rich history dating back to its construction in 1917 by the Baldwin Locomotive Works of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. This 3-foot gauge locomotive originally served the East Tennessee and Western North Carolina Railroad (ET&WNC), operating in the mountainous regions between Tennessee and North Carolina. Locomotive No. 12 is one of the few remaining narrow gauge steam engines 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 Tweetsie Railroad, a heritage amusement park that opened in Blowing Rock, North Carolina, in 1957. The locomotive underwent extensive restoration to restore it to working condition, allowing it to serve as the park’s main scenic railroad attraction. Over the years, dedicated teams worked tirelessly to maintain and preserve the locomotive, ensuring it continued to operate safely and efficiently. Restoration efforts included rebuilding the boiler, refurbishing engine components, and upgrading its systems while maintaining its historical integrity.
Educational experience for visitors:
Today, Locomotive No. 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, providing a nostalgic ride that highlights the engineering marvels of the past. Along with the scenic ride, the Tweeter Railroad offers educational exhibits and live demonstrations that showcase the locomotive’s history and the importance of steam railroads in America’s industrial development. Not only does Locomotive No. 12 serve as a living museum piece, it is also a dynamic educational tool, bringing history to life for thousands of visitors each year.
“We look forward to this event every year,” he said. Chris Robbins to Tweety Railway“It is a unique celebration that highlights the history of the park, and a century of narrow gauge steam locomotive heritage that began with the East Tennessee and Western North Carolina Railroad (ET&WNC).”
This is the only time of year that both narrow gauge steam locomotives will be operating in the park at the same time. Locomotive No. 12, “Tweetsie,” will pull a vintage 1870s trolley to recreate an authentic ET&WNC experience. At the same time, locomotive No. 190, “Tweetsie,” will pull a vintage 1870s trolley to recreate an authentic ET&WNC experience.Yukon Queen,A separate train will take guests on a traditional Wild West adventure. On Sunday mornings, locomotives No. 12 and No. 190 will operate side by side as a classic “double ride.”
“If you love trains, this is a weekend you don’t want to miss,” he adds. Robins. In addition to the train rides, guests are invited to tour the Tweeters’ railroad store and memorabilia room. “This is the only time of year we allow guests into the store to see everything it takes to keep these historic locomotives in service.”
