Rockhill Furnace, PA — Steam has once again returned to the East Broad Top Railroad after eight months of extensive repairs to its historic steam locomotive, No. 16. Built in 1916 and now 108 years old, this engine is set to resume service as the primary locomotive for the rest of the 2024 season.

Last year, No. 16 returned to the rails for the first time since 1956, and went on to operate 150 days and carry a record-breaking 35,000 passengers in the 2023 season. This winter, railroad crews used the off-season to complete the locomotive’s annual boiler inspection and conduct routine maintenance. While the engine passed its boiler inspection, two cracked spokes were discovered on one of the locomotive’s main drive wheels. As a result, it was announced that No. 16 would be out of service until August 2024 to allow for necessary repairs. These repairs were completed on schedule by the skilled team at the railroad’s own facility and the locomotive returned to the rails on Friday, August 30th, pulling excursion trains on the 150-year-old railroad.

“Each turn of a wheel on a century-old steam locomotive is a testament to the hard working people who dedicate their lives to preserving this important part of American industrial history,” said EBT Foundation Master Mechanic Dave Domitrovich. “I am very proud of the countless hours our crews have dedicated to bring No. 16 back as quickly as possible, while also upholding the highest standard of quality in their work.” 

Visitors can ride behind this vintage locomotive every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday through October 27th, with additional weekday excursions during peak fall colors. The second weekend in September will feature the Central Pennsylvania Ragtime and American Music Festival, offering musical performances from Grammy Award-winning artists on and off the rails. In October, the last three weekends will allow visitors the opportunity to pick their very own perfect pumpkin and meet Snoopy and Charlie Brown aboard the PEANUTS™ The Great Pumpkin Patch Express. During the holiday season, passengers can enjoy carols, hot chocolate, cookies, and a visit from Santa aboard the Christmas in Coal Country trains. 

The East Broad Top Railroad is the only original narrow-gauge line (with rails 3′ apart, instead of the standard 4′ 8.5″) east of the Rocky Mountains. Originally completed in 1874 to serve the iron and coal industry along a 33-mile corridor in Central PA, the railroad ceased operations in 1956. It was later purchased by the Kovalchick family of Indiana, Pennsylvania, who reopened it as a steam-powered tourist railroad in 1960, running until 2011. In February 2020, the non-profit EBT Foundation acquired the railroad and began an unprecedented restoration effort to bring it back to life. For schedules, fares, and reservations, visit eastbroadtop.com.