It all started back in 1855 at the Rogers Locomotive and Machine Works in Paterson NJ, a 4-4-0 Steam Engine built for the Western and Atlanta Railroad that was named "General". It was later the object of one of the most amazing stories of bravery that came of the great unpleasantness that is now called "The Civil War" or "The War of Secession".
The episode I'm referring to is of course the "Great Locomotive Chase". James J. Andrews and his raiders stole General at a stop called Big Shanty (now Kennesaw) GA. with the intent of destroying the rail line between Atlanta GA and Chattanooga TN. Andrews Raiders may have had greater success if it were not for actions of the Conductor, William Allen Fuller. Fuller immediately gave chase, on foot, and there rest is history.
If you'd like to read more about it check these links out.
http://www.andrewsraid.com/
http://www.aboutnorthgeorgia.com/ang/The_Great_Locomotive_Chase
The reason for this thread?
I've been tempted once again...
I think I'm going to look into what it will take to make General look as it did during the raid. It was converted to an oil burner, I believe I've read that the stack for a wood burner does not have the funnel shape but that research will be coming.
The great thing about it is "General" is on display in Kennesaw GA and it's a nice day trip to head over there and check it out. Mike, Chris and I have been there and Mike has a lot of photos loaded up that will come in handy.
Hop on board, we'll not be leaving anytime soon, want to clear some projects up first but I thought it would be fun to start the conversation now.
:train
The episode I'm referring to is of course the "Great Locomotive Chase". James J. Andrews and his raiders stole General at a stop called Big Shanty (now Kennesaw) GA. with the intent of destroying the rail line between Atlanta GA and Chattanooga TN. Andrews Raiders may have had greater success if it were not for actions of the Conductor, William Allen Fuller. Fuller immediately gave chase, on foot, and there rest is history.
If you'd like to read more about it check these links out.
http://www.andrewsraid.com/
http://www.aboutnorthgeorgia.com/ang/The_Great_Locomotive_Chase
The reason for this thread?
I've been tempted once again...
I think I'm going to look into what it will take to make General look as it did during the raid. It was converted to an oil burner, I believe I've read that the stack for a wood burner does not have the funnel shape but that research will be coming.
The great thing about it is "General" is on display in Kennesaw GA and it's a nice day trip to head over there and check it out. Mike, Chris and I have been there and Mike has a lot of photos loaded up that will come in handy.
Hop on board, we'll not be leaving anytime soon, want to clear some projects up first but I thought it would be fun to start the conversation now.
:train
