The Great Smoky Mountain Railroad Steam Engine, specifically the 1702, is an S160 class 2-8-0 “Consolidation” type steam locomotive built in September 1942 by the Baldwin Locomotive Works in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. This historic steam engine has a rich history and plays a vital role in the scenic excursions offered by the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad.
History of the Steam Engine 1702
The 1702 steam engine has a fascinating history that spans several decades and multiple railroads. Originally built for the U.S. Army Transportation Corps during World War II, the locomotive was stationed at Fort Bragg military base in Fayetteville, North Carolina, for training purposes. After the war, it was sold to the Warren and Saline River Railroad (WSR) in Warren, Arkansas, where it hauled lumber trains. The 1702 later served on the Reader Railroad (RERX) in Hot Springs, Arkansas, and the Fremont and Elkhorn Valley Railroad (FEVR) in Fremont, Nebraska, before being purchased by the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad (GSMR) in 1991.
Features of the S160 Consolidation Steam Locomotive
The 1702 steam engine is a Class S160 2-8-0 “Consolidation” type locomotive, a design that was widely used during World War II for its versatility and power. Some key features of this locomotive include:
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Class | S160 class 2-8-0 “Consolidation” type steam locomotive |
| Builder | Baldwin Locomotive Works in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania |
| Year Built | September 1942 |
| Original Purpose | Built for the U.S. Army Transportation Corps during World War II |
| Modifications | Originally equipped with buffers and chain couplers, which were replaced with knuckle couplers. The firebox was modified to burn fuel oil instead of coal. |
| Tender Capacity | Holds 3,600 US gallons (14,000 L) of fuel and 10,000 US gallons (38,000 L) of water |
Operations on the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad
The 1702 steam engine plays a crucial role in the scenic excursions offered by the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad. It operates on the Nantahala Gorge and Tuckasegee River tourist excursions, spanning 53 miles (85 kilometers) of track between Dillsboro and Nantahala, North Carolina. During these excursions, the 1702 consumes approximately 400 US gallons (1,500 L) of fuel and 3,500 US gallons (13,000 L) of water per round trip.
After being sidelined in 2005 due to firebox issues, the 1702 was restored and returned to service in 2016, delighting passengers with its powerful performance and historic charm.
Media Appearances
The 1702 steam engine has made cameo appearances in several films, including “This Property Is Condemned” (1966) and “Boxcar Bertha” (1972), further adding to its cinematic legacy.
Touring Information
Visitors to the Great Smoky Mountains can experience the 1702 steam engine firsthand by taking one of the scenic excursions offered by the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad. The railroad operates out of Bryson City, North Carolina, and offers two main excursions:
- Nantahala Gorge Excursion
- Tuckasegee River Excursion
In addition to these regular excursions, the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad also hosts various special events throughout the year, such as THE POLAR EXPRESS™ Train Ride, Carolina Moonshine Experience, Smoky Mountain Beer Run, and Uncorked Wine Trains.