West Side Shay No. 14 Cosmetic Restoration

Since December 2021, Mr. Phil Reader has been at the Colorado Railroad Museum in Golden, cleaning and preparing ex-West Side Lumber Co. Three-Truck Shay No.14 for a much-needed cosmetic restoration, with permission from the engine's owners, Lindsey and Rosa Ashby. Here are a couple of images he took of his work so far from his Facebook account. Also attached are some of his Facebook posts' descriptions explaining his project goals.

"Since 2004, the former West Side Lumber/Georgetown Loop Shay 14 has been stored at the Colorado Railroad Museum in Golden, Colorado.
Time and the elements have not been kind to this fabled Shay. Faded paint and some minor rusting are just some of her issues that need to be addressed.
So, with the permission of the owners, I am happy to say that starting later this week, I am going to start in on cleaning and painting the 14. Perhaps even the replacement of some of the bad wood.
Although she will remain out of service, for the time being, it is my hope and plan that when I am finished, it will once again be proudly wearing her West Side lettering as she sits on display."

"Today, I spent a few hours and started in on painting Shay 14. This paint project is going to take some time, but it's well worth it. Weather permitting, I am planning to spend Saturdays working on the 14."

Photo Credit: Phil Reader

Here is a close-up of No. 14's recently-repainted number plate.


Here is a close-up of No. 14's recently de-rusted (or repainted?) front link and pin coupler pocket.