I hear(d) that whistle blowin!

So there I am yesterday afternoon, talking to my galfriend about some pics I've just put up about our visits to the Airborne Museum at the Hartenstein Hotel in Oosterbeek Holland last summer (Operation Market Garden-"A Bridge Too Far")

http://community.webshots.com/album/366601535amusCy

and the restored PT Boat we'd just gotten back from seeing

http://community.webshots.com/album/365643705xgXhIl

when I hear off in the distance the low, moaning whail of a big steam locomotive's whistle.

We look at each other and I say, "I've gotta go!" as I grab my camera and head out the door and jump in my truck...I'm off train hunting!

Well, I caught up with her a few miles away. She was holding up traffic on a late Saturday's afternoon as she went forward then backed then went forward and backed some more. The people gawked, not really upset that their thoroughfare was blocked as much as admiring a beautiful apparition, totally unexpected by all.

I quickly parked, and headed towards where I saw the steam billowing up between some buildings.

There, in all her beautiful Daylight colors was SP4449, who I'd just seen, partially disassembled just a few weeks ago, there before me.

So, as I always do, I snapped a few pics, hung out for awhile, then resumed my day's activities.

Come see her here. She's looking as good as ever!

http://community.webshots.com/album/367152854qxEGBl

Oh, and does anybody here KNOW the name of 4449's Fireman?

I know his first name is "Pat", but I couldn't catch the last name through the hissing of steam, splashing of water, and roar of the burners.

If anybody knows, please post it here as I'd like to add his name under the pic captions.

I thought it was Jack Wheelian but maybe you had another fireman for that trip. I know he was the regular fireman back in the day. You know seeings you live close drop by and join the group. Or ask how to help out I am sure Doyle would like an extra set of hands for something ( steam is great but hands on and labor intensive) so who knows maybe you could be that fireman someday BTW will be getting an email off to you tonight got tied up here working and family stuff these last few days.

Boy she looks ready to rock and roll...

Too bad all these other locomotives (C&O 614, for example among others) couldn't atleast find their way to Steamtown if their not going to ever be used again... What a shame...