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Rockyrailroad578 — Missy 'Sippi
Published: 2017-10-04 22:57:27 +0000 UTC; Views: 1165; Favourites: 23; Downloads: 0
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Description
The first locomotive to run in the southern United States, Mississippi ran on it's namesake railroad along it's namesake river in 1834. This tiny locomotive was in service until the 1870s, being transferred to Vicksburg during the Civil War, where it derailed and was lost in a ditch. Later on, it was recovered and used by a small railroad for a short time, until making its way to Chicago under it's own steam for the 1892 Columbian Fair. Afterwards, it made a few more outings before becoming a static museum piece in Chicago, which was apparently sold at auction.Related content
Comments: 14
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How tiny is it?
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Almost as long as it is wide.
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Nicely done! The Mississippi was sold to the Knoxville and Holston River, operator of the Three Rivers Rambler in Knoxville, TN. The engine is being restored in Knoxville, where it was also determined it is the oldest existing US-built steam engine with a horizontal boiler.
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They're going to run the locomotive!? Excellent!
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No. They are doing a cosmetic restoration.
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Oh, good.
I was concerned about them having to replace parts on the engine. Good on them though!
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That would be the reason why they aren't restoring the Mississippi to operation: it would replace too many of the original components. The Knoxville and Holston River is hoping to build some sort of display building to house the Mississippi as well as the KXHR's 3 other steam engines.
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