UP Centennial move a strong start for Silvis

SILVIS, IL (RAILFAN JOURNAL) - It was just a simple prime mover test. However, it was still movement and for the folks at Railroading Heritage of Midwest America (RRHMA), it’s a tremendous success and what we can only hope is a sign of good things to come in the near future.

Restoring a diesel locomotive that had only been out of service for seven years is surely less arduous a task than restoring steam locomotives out of service for over a decade and 60+ years respectively but the mere fact that RRHMA got the big motor finished this soon is a real testament to the people involved…and the wallets of those who donated to the cause. Especially when you consider that the Centennials are basically two engines on one frame!

We’ve seen it so many times, valiant efforts are made to restore icons of railroading and bring them back to life, only to fall short or take many years past the initial estimate due to lack of funding. The fact that UP 6936 is running, less than a year after arriving along with UP 3985 and UP 5511 is fantastic news. I can’t wait to see what the folks up in the old Rock Island shops have in store for us next.

Featured image: Union Pacific 3985, 5511, and 6936 sit outside of the railroad’s Cheyenne, Wyoming steam shop prior to their journey to Illinois. Credit: Union Pacific Railroad

Union Pacific 3985, 5511, and 6936 sit outside of the railroad’s Cheyenne, Wyoming steam shop prior to their journey to Illinois.Photo byUnion Pacific