Our museum will utilize the #103 restoration project and return to operation as a catalyst to encourage volunteerism, museum membership, become a community ambassador, and teach a new generation about these amazing machines. The sensory experience that a steam locomotive invokes is unique and awe-inspiring. RMNE will create new partnerships in preservation to bring this historic piece of Americana back to life.

Almost 100 years since it left the factory in Philadelphia, and 50 years since it last operated, #103 is ready for restoration.  It is time to hear her whistle echo off the Litchfield Hills and through the Naugatuck River Valley.

In February 2020, #103 was evaluated by a team of experienced steam locomotive restorers during a week inside the Thomaston Shop.  During its 50-year service life, #103 never received a complete overhaul.  The locomotive is in good condition overall, and this will be the most extensive work it has had since 1925.  It will need repairs to boiler and firebox, cylinders and driving gear, wheels and axles.  The tender will be completely rebuilt, and the locomotive will burn liquid fuel instead of coal.

The preliminary restoration plan calls for work to start on the smaller parts of 103, at the Thomaston Shop, and major work will start once major goals are reached in the fundraising campaign.  Boiler repairs will be done off-site by Maine Locomotive & Machine, an experienced locomotive boiler contractor, with RMNE volunteers assisting.  Frame, cylinders and wheels will be worked on at Thomaston and at Western Maryland Scenic Railroad shops, with contractor and volunteer participation.  The tender work will be done at Thomaston.

Financial goals are $375,000 for the entire project; the major disassembly of the locomotive would not be done until the $175,000 mark is reached, when the boiler work would start.