Dan Markoff Wrote:
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> However, it is an enormous amount of work,
> not only for the inspection, but just transporting
> it back and forth between Nevada and other states
> is a huge effort in time and money. Over the
> years I have transported the locomotive about 40
> times. For those who have not had the experience
> you should try moving a locomotive at least once.
> It will give an appreciation for what goes into
> the process.

> Dan

Having helped load and move several 'small' standard gauge locomotives (0-4-0, 4-6-0, 2-8-0) over the years at Railtown 1897 SHP, George Sapp and I were honored to have been able to assist in a small way at the end of the 2011 Railfest on the D&S with Dan loading the Eureka onto it's transport trailer and 'buttoning it up' so it could safely travel back home to Nevada from Colorado.

Just separating the engine from it's tender, building the ramps, loading the engine, the tender and safely securing them onto their trailers takes several hours. The loading or unloading process is the most stressful part for Dan and he has some of the best folks in the business that handle that aspect. Even after the engine and tender are tied down on their respective transports, there is still more to do to protect the Eureka from roadway travel. The cab's 'jewelry' and cab windows need to be protected from errant objects striking them and causing damage, so add in some more time there. If I recall correctly, it took all of the morning with the transports ready to hit the road about 2pm that day.

The few times I've witnessed the Eureka up close and personal will always be some of the more memorable experiences in my lifetime. I'd like to express a huge Thank You to Dan and his crew(s) over the years for sharing this snapshot of history with us all.





Erik Young
Caltrans CEO II, Long Barn Road Crew 664: 2018-Present
Caltrans CEO II, Sonora Road Crew 662: 2015-2018
Caltrans CEO II, Merced West Crew 694: 2010-2015
Engineer/Fireman: Hetch Hetchy & Yosemite Valleys Railway
Engineer/Fireman/Conductor: Railtown 1897 State Historic Park 1996-2010
CMO Dardenelle & Eastern Ry
Operating Engineer: init. 12/1985, IUOE Local #3
'Steam Freak At Large'