The Saint Louis Chapter of the National Railway Historical Society is seeking funds to cosmetically restore this steam locomotive. Built by the Rhode Island Locomotive Works, this 2-6-0 Mogul-type freight locomotive was retained for two years after had become dieselized because of a bridge which would not support the weight of diesel-electric locomotives. Number 573 weights 215,825 pounds in working order, has 64” drive wheels and 19” x 28” cylinders. It was built in 1899 and is one of the smallest engines operated by the Wabash. Number 573 was donated to the Museum of Transportation in 1955 by the Wabash Railroad. It is believed that this is the last remaining Wabash steam engine that was built for and ran on the Wabash. It is located at the Museum of Transportation at Saint Louis.
The Chapter is seeking donations for a dedicated fund that will cosmetically restore (surface preparation and repaint) so as to preserve this historic item. Our fund-raising goal is $11,000. The Chapter is a 501(c)3 tax-exempt nonprofit located in the Saint Louis area. Please send your contribution to: Saint Louis Chapter NRHS, P.O. Box 220168, St. Louis, MO 63122-0168. Please note on your check memo line “for Wabash steam engine.” Thank you for helping!
