Digging a bit further, I find that there is an earlier 275,
listed as having been built by Manchester for the B&MR (doesn’t
specify whether Iowa or Nebraska) in 1870 as Osceola
#42 (0-4-0). It is shown as having been sold to CB&Q in 1875
becoming #275. As 1875 is when the B&MR (Iowa) deeded all its property and
equipment to the CB&Q, this would explain why a 5 year old loco was
“sold” and how CB&Q acquired it. I believe that the “B&MR”
roster I have is for the Nebraska company which is why there is no mention of
this engine.
So, I think the 1870 Manchester engine numbered 275 could be the one in the
photo which would agree with the “ancient” appearance and yet keep
the number.
B&MR Iowa – 1857 to 1875
B&MR Nebraska – 1870 to 1880, although its equipment kept its initials
and numbers until the 1904 renumbering.
Rupert Gamlen
Auckland NZ