The Low-Tech Times

Here in the eastern United States, I was very disappointed when Norfolk Southern discontinued their steam operations program in 1994. Fortunately, mainline steam fans in the West still have something to be grateful for. Union Pacific Railroad continues to own and operate two steam locomotives, U.P. 4-8-4 844 and U.P. Challenger 3985.

Number 844 recently led a 34 car passenger train to the Democratic National Convention. The train will be on display at the event. Talanalea posted a Youtube video of the train near Cheyenne, WY on its way to Denver.

See Also:Obama Continues the Tradition of Utilizing Trains In Presidential Politics

After posting a photo and audio clip from yesterday’s Pageant of Steam, I uploaded a couple of short steam tractor video clips taken at the event.

Today, my wife and I went to the Shenandoah Valley Steam and Gas Engine Association Pageant of Steam in Berryville, Virginia. Unfortunately, a thunderstorm arrived just in time to rain on the parade of steam, but the event went on as scheduled. I used a cassette recorder to make a short audio recording of the noon whistle blow and parade of steam tractors.

The event also featured model-T fords, Stanley Steamers, a hay baling demonstration, a sawmill demonstration, corn dogs, and more. Fortunately, the weather cleared later in the afternoon.

I also shot a couple of short video clips, which I will try to upload in the coming days.