The Lehigh Valley Me-1 Engine is a fascinating piece of railroad history that continues to captivate train enthusiasts and historians alike. As a relic of the Lehigh Valley Railroad, this engine played a significant role in the transportation of goods and people during its operational years. In this article, we will delve into five key facts about the Lehigh Valley Me-1 Engine, exploring its design, functionality, and importance in American railroad history.
Design and Construction
Design and Construction
The Lehigh Valley Me-1 Engine was a 4-8-2 Mountain-type steam locomotive built by the Baldwin Locomotive Works in 1928. It was one of six engines of its kind constructed for the Lehigh Valley Railroad, designed to handle heavy freight and passenger trains. The Me-1 Engine featured a distinctive 4-8-2 wheel arrangement, with four leading wheels, eight driving wheels, and two trailing wheels.
Operational Years and Routes
Operational Years and Routes
The Lehigh Valley Me-1 Engine operated from 1928 to 1950, primarily serving the Lehigh Valley Railroad's main line between New York City and Buffalo, New York. It hauled freight and passenger trains through the scenic Lehigh Valley region, earning a reputation for its reliability and power.
Technical Specifications
Technical Specifications
The Lehigh Valley Me-1 Engine boasted impressive technical specifications for its time:
- Cylinders: 2 (27" x 30")
- Drivers: 69"
- Boiler Pressure: 210 psi
- Tractive Effort: 63,000 lbs
- Engine Weight: 442,000 lbs
These specifications enabled the Me-1 Engine to haul heavy loads over challenging terrain, making it an indispensable asset to the Lehigh Valley Railroad.
Preservation and Legacy
Preservation and Legacy
After its retirement in 1950, the Lehigh Valley Me-1 Engine was preserved and eventually restored to its original condition. Today, it is on display at the Railroad Museum of Pennsylvania, where it remains a popular attraction for railroad enthusiasts and historians.
Conclusion
A Lasting Legacy
The Lehigh Valley Me-1 Engine is an iconic symbol of American railroad history, representing the ingenuity and perseverance of the engineers and workers who built and operated it. Its legacy continues to inspire new generations of railroad enthusiasts, and its preservation serves as a testament to the importance of preserving our industrial heritage.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What was the primary function of the Lehigh Valley Me-1 Engine?
+The Lehigh Valley Me-1 Engine was designed to haul heavy freight and passenger trains through the Lehigh Valley region.
Where is the Lehigh Valley Me-1 Engine currently on display?
+The Lehigh Valley Me-1 Engine is on display at the Railroad Museum of Pennsylvania.
What were the technical specifications of the Lehigh Valley Me-1 Engine?
+The Lehigh Valley Me-1 Engine had cylinders measuring 27" x 30", drivers measuring 69", and a boiler pressure of 210 psi.