K 27 First Run June 27, 2023

This was my first time running my newly built locomotive at the St. Croix Railroad. I had steamed it up at home twice before this to check that everything was functioning properly, but this was the first time I actually could ride behind it. It ran very well, and over the course of a couple hours, I was able to get a good feel for how to manage the coal fire and water consumption. It was an amazing day and hugely gratifying after seven years (!) of work. I'm looking forward to seeing how much it will really pull, and building the final tender. This video was all shot by my friend Fred Hoeser. Thanks to him for the great work documenting the day!