For the most part the Glenbrook project is stalled, mainly because the Mckeen motor car is being restored. Chris DeWitt, head of restoration at the Nevada State Railroad Museum, has the tender restored on the Glenbrook, but is going to repaint it so that it has colors closer to its original paint scheme. As for the engine, most of the running gear is back together, but the boiler is off the frame and is being completely rebuilt. However, many of the original components of the boiler will be retained, ie crown bars, firebox, tube sheets. The barrel of the boiler has been removed. New sheets have been rolled and are about ready to be rivited together. Also, wood for the new cab has been received . Most of the parts for the backhead are restored, with some exceptions, as are the domes, bell, crosshead pump etc. All in all, the Glenbrook is mostly in need of the restoration crew to find some time to do the job. I know when Chris gets to it, the Glenbrook will be a fantastic and beautiful locomotive that will once again steam as it did in days of old. (We kinda like to see our 19th century stuff here in Nevada return to service). Someday I would like to see it and the Eureka double head in some picturesque spot.....any ideas?
Meanwhile the Mckeen is coming along nicely. I am sure that it will be quite a sight to see when it is done. I guess its the only thing I know of on rails that looks like it would also be at home in the water. In fact, some wiseguy stuck a boat prop on the stern before restoration started. Don't worry though, the prop has since found another more appropriate place.
Dan
