June 13, 2014
Art and Group - Here's another Don Seeger photograph given years ago to my
Dad. The undated scene shows Class S-4 No. 3001 paused at the Red Oak, IA, depot
while the engineer inspects and oils the valve gear. The engine's 78-inch
drivers and 25x28-inch cylinders certainly overwhelm the engineer. The Class S-4
engines were the Q's true passenger train racehorses and capable of
sustained 100 mph operation.
No. 3001 was built by Baldwin in 1930. With the rapid dieselization of
passenger train operations following World War Two, No. 3001 was bumped down to
freight service for which it was not designed. The Class S-4 engine had one
final moment of glory in 1958 when it powered a fan trip out of Chicago.
Following, No. 3001 found a good retirement home when it was donated in
1959 to Ottumwa, IA, for historical display.
The 3000's and their sister 4000 Class S-4a engines all are remembered
today as one of the most successful Q passenger engine designs. Between 1959 and
1963, President Harry Murphy donated five of the two Classes to various
communities along the Q where they all remain today as testaments to the Age of
Steam. Perhaps, one future day a Class S-4 will be restored to operation. Best
Regards - Louis
