D&RGW No. 169

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In Alamosa, former D&RGW No. 169 is undergoing a restoration, as well. The 1883 engine was used on passenger trains throughout the railroad, including Durango.

Pat Skroch, office manager of the Alamosa County Chamber of Commerce, said efforts to restore the 169 were initiated by an Alamosa newspaper publisher and chamber official in 1998.

Ultrasound and hydrostatic tests funded by the Durango-based Denver & Rio Grande Railway Historical Foundation showed the boiler to be sound, Skroch said. Volunteers are already at work removing flues from the boiler.

Eventually, the engine will be moved to Chama, N.M., to the shops of the Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad for heavier work. When completed, the locomotive would likely operate out of Chama or Antonito, Skroch said.

So far, she said, $40,000 has been donated by the community. The rebuild is expected to cost $400,000, with another $400,000 for the restoration of a historic business car and $250,000 for construction of a pavilion to house the equipment.

The 169 could also make occasional appearances on D&SNG rails, Skorch said, though no plans have been made as yet.