Monday, August 5, 2024
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Join Tweetsie Railroad in celebrating the golden age of steam at its annual Railroad Heritage Weekend on August 24 and 25.
Historic Significance of Locomotive No. 12:
Tweetsie Railroad’s Locomotive No. 12, often referred to as “Tweetsie,” is a narrow-gauge steam engine with a rich history dating back to its construction in 1917 by the Baldwin Locomotive Works in 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. No. 12 is one of the few surviving 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 era in the Appalachian region.
Restoration and Preservation:
After the ET&WNC Railroad ceased operations in the 1950s, Locomotive No. 12 was acquired by the Tweetsie Railroad, a heritage theme park that opened in Blowing Rock, North Carolina, in 1957. The locomotive underwent extensive restoration to return it to working condition, allowing it to serve as the star attraction of the park’s scenic railway. Over the years, dedicated teams have worked tirelessly to maintain and preserve the locomotive, ensuring that it continues to operate safely and efficiently. The restoration efforts have included rebuilding its boiler, refurbishing the engine’s components, and updating its systems while keeping its historical integrity intact.
An 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 picturesque Blue Ridge Mountains, offering a nostalgic journey that highlights the engineering marvels of the past. Along with the scenic ride, Tweetsie Railroad provides educational exhibits and live demonstrations that showcase the history of the locomotive and the importance of steam railroads in American industrial development. Locomotive No. 12 not only serves as a living museum piece but also as a dynamic educational tool, bringing history to life for thousands of visitors each year.
“We look forward to this event every year,” said Chris Robbins of Tweetsie Railroad. “It is a unique celebration that highlights the park’s history, 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 the year when both of the park’s narrow-gauge steam locomotives are running simultaneously. Locomotive No. 12, “Tweetsie,” will pull an 1870’s vintage coach car recreating the authentic experience of the ET&WNC Railroad. Meanwhile, the No. 190 locomotive, the “Yukon Queen,” will pull a separate train taking guests on the traditional Wild West adventure. On Sunday morning, both locomotives No. 12 and No. 190 will run in tandem as a classic “double-header.”
“If you love trains, this is one weekend you don’t want to miss,” adds Robbins. In addition to the train rides, guests are invited to tour Tweetsie Railroad’s Locomotive Shop and the Memorabilia Room. “This is the one time of year that we allow guests to enter the shop to get an insight into all it takes to keep these historic locomotives operational.”
