| Aft first glance, the 1953 date written on the back of this photo saken by L.A. Stucky seemed inconsistent until a little research shed light on this magnificent locomotive built by the New York Locomotive Works of Rome, NY in 1883. R. V. Nixon talks about 684: "The 684, [C]lass C-1, was built by the New York Locomotive Works and delivered to St. Paul the year the Northern Pacific was completed. It remained in main line passenger service for nearly 25 years and was then assigned to the Billings-Bridger passenger run. We who remember the bright red wheels, polished brass, clear-toned bell and peanut wagon whistle, can distinctly visualize the 684 starring in a Northern Pacific motion picture, along with the construction engine, Minnetonka." Nixon adds that 684 was apparently to be dismantled in 1925, but instead was overhauled and sold to the Nez Perce & Idaho as their #4."For years," Nixon continued, "the 4 spot worked the 13 miles between Craigmont and Nez Perce, Idaho. Then the inevitable happened and she was laid aside in favor of more modern power. At the time of Nixon's account she seemed to be rusting away. "But even in her disgrace she's still a proud, high-stepping beauty," he said hopefully, "and waiting only for someone to come to her rescue." And rescue they did. NP found her abandoned in a field in 1948. Read more about the fascinating history of this loco at the Bonanzaville RR Museumwebsite. (http://www.bonanzaville.org/collections-exhibits/village/railroad-museum). |