Yesterday this little locomotive, BGT 84, started and moved under her own power for the first time in two decades. I wish I could have been there to see and hear it in person, but since I couldn’t I figured it was a good time to share another photo I took last month when I paid her a visit.
The little EMC SW-1 was built by Electro-Motive Corporation and completed June 15, 1939 on order E259 and was originally Chicago, Burlington and Quincy 9139. It later became Burlington Northern 84 until retired by the BN in November 1975. It then spent another decade on the Davenport, Rock Island and Northwestern until coming to Billings Grain Terminal. Now privately owned by friends of mine who purchased her from BGT’s successor after the facility she served was shuttered, getting to see 84 in person was ome reason I wanted to make the trek over to Billings during our brief visit out to photograph the MRL.
He and his business partners are restoring her to operation and eventually hope to find her a home on a tourist railroad or museum where she can run. To support the effort and learn more check out this link and even buy yourself a shirt, I’ve got one!
Billings, Montana
Wednesday September 7, 2022
Posted by Dave Blaze Rail Photography on 2022-10-11 14:21:05
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