Heisler, Climax and Shay. Here's another "just because we can" run-by at the White Mountain Central, featuring one example of all three major geared steam locomotive types. On the point of this lash-up is 2-Truck Heisler #4, followed by 2-Truck Climax #6 and 2-Truck Shay #5. Unfortunately, only the Climax (center of the consist) is currently operable. Having come from the nearby Beebe River Lumber Company, she's the power on the railroad's regular passenger trains. As of the time of this photo, she was the ONLY operating Climax in the United States and one of just 2 in the world. The Heisler is the only engine of the three which does not have roots in New Hampshire, coming the International Shoe Company in Marlinton, West Virginia. She was the primary power here during the 60s, and operated intermittently until she was sidelined with boiler issues about 10 years ago. She would need a new boiler to operate. Since she's too small to push the line's regular trains, restoration to operation is a low priority. The Shay (tail end of consist) came from the Woodstock Lumber Company....literally just down the road from Clark's. She's pretty worn-out, both in terms of the boiler and everything else. For this event however, the folks at Clark's did a very nice job cosmetically restoring her. She looks a ton better than she has in recent years. Alive or dead, there just aren't many places in the US where you can see all three geared types in motion. Cass and Mt. Rainier are the only other ones I can think of.
From a hint of "Bee" (NKP 765), colorful "Bees" (KCS), "Bees" w/ "attitude", to "Bees" that "sting" your eyes, in their own way they have "Bee" on display! Equipment that "Buzzes" with Yellow & Black colors! ("Bees" can still "Bee" entering this "hive"!)
