A log hog in the fog. Just after first light, Santa Maria Valley Locomotive #205 sets off out of Lebanon, OR on the Mill City Branch of the Albany & Eastern Railroad, headed east with some heavy timber destined for Mill City, a little over 25 miles down the line. This image was captured just south of Payne Drive, about 2 miles northeast of the South Santiam River Trestle, during a 2022 photo excursion organized by Lerro Photography. This locomotive was recently restored to operation after nearly 70 years of inactivity, much of which was spent as an outdoor, static display. Needless to say, being stored outdoors for decades meant that just about everything on this locomotive required significant work. Fortunately, the gentleman who did that work took the time to attend to every detail and the results speak for themselves. This locomotive is beautiful and can now be seen in weekend excursion service on the Albany & Eastern Railroad.
A look at steam operations on Oregon's Albany & Eastern Railroad, headquartered in Lebanon, OR, and featuring Santa Maria Valley Railroad Locomotive #205.
