Mechanical Work Begins on New York Central Steam Locomotive, $20,000 Fundraising Match Announced
ELKHART, IND. – The American Locomotive Project, a campaign to revive a distinctive 1940s steam-powered time machine from the New York Central Railroad, has reached 56% of its $500,000 kick-off goal as the engine’s custodians hold their first official work session.
To date, the Fort Wayne Railroad Historical Society has raised over $284,643, and a new $20,000 donor match has been announced for all contributions made between now and April 30, 2025. Donations can be made online at americanloco.org or by mail.
On Saturday, February 8, a small team of volunteers removed the locomotive’s original slide-valve, steam-driven air compressor – which had previously sustained freeze damage – in exchange for a newer model.
The swap was facilitated by FMW Solutions and arranged by the Abbeville Foundation, owners of Florida East Coast steam locomotive No. 253, which is undergoing a cosmetic restoration for a community exhibition in Abbeville, Alabama. The trade will provide locomotive No. 3001 with a more modern, recently refurbished air compressor, reducing restoration costs. More comprehensive mechanical prep work for 3001 is scheduled for September, during a planned break in Fort Wayne’s excursion season.
“Since October of last year, we’ve had over 500 donors contribute to push us past the 50% mark, with some gifts ranging between $20,000 and $50,000,” shared Kelly Lynch, Executive Director of the Fort Wayne Railroad Historical Society. “Our objective is to raise $500,000 by May, as it marks the 68th anniversary of the end of steam on the New York Central Railroad. This funding will support preparation, transportation, and initial restoration work. It will also demonstrate that this locomotive’s grassroots transformation into a cultural attraction has the required support to make it a reality in the 21st century—which we firmly believe it does.”
Since 1972, the Fort Wayne Railroad Historical Society has worked to restore and transform historic railroad equipment into operating cultural attractions, most notably Nickel Plate Road steam locomotive No. 765. For over 40 years, its dedicated volunteers have exhibited vintage rail attractions throughout the Midwest and Eastern United States.
In association with the Indiana Northeastern Railroad, the organization created the Indiana Rail Experience in 2022 and now routinely operates tourist trains between Indiana, Michigan, and Ohio. With growing attendance numbers and an economic impact of over $3 million, the 100-mile-long route was named Indiana’s Best New Experience in 2023. Much of the current route for the Indiana Rail Experience includes former New York Central Railroad trackage and features restored passenger cars and railroad stations from the original railroad, creating a genuine, immersive recreation of an inspirational era in American industry.
In the first half of the 20th century, the New York Central Railroad was a premier means of travel for millions of Americans. The railroad carried citizens, workers, and vacationers from every walk of life aboard its renowned steel fleet of famous trains. The Central’s flagship trains, such as the 20th Century Limited, Empire State Express, Mercury, and others, symbolized the optimism of the Art Deco era and embodied a dedication to public service. This will be the first time since 1957 that one of its most recognizable icons has a clear path toward operational restoration.
