On a trip to the Cass in May 2009 for “Railfan Weekend” I stopped by the John Killoran Restoration Building after hearing about the Climax Locomotive restoration project. The volunteers had stripped the locomotve right down to the frame. Following the project for the next ten years culminated in the announcement early this year that the locomotive would make its operational debut at the “Rail Heritage Weekend”. Cass #9 is seen making its very first photo runby on the ex-C&O Railway’s Greenbrier Division at milepost 83.33 (Pine Flats). Thanks to all involved for their dedication and toil in bringing this gem back to steam for a new generation to enjoy!

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John Smith, the owner of the Durbin & Greenbrier River is at the throttle of Moore-Kepple & Co. #9 as it heads to take water at the Cass water tank.

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Night photo shoot with Climax #9 and Shay #2 at the water tank in Cass, West Virginia.

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The two centurians pose side by side in downtown Cass, West Virginia. Shay #5 celebrated the century mark in 2005 and
Climax #9 in 2019. Both are a testiment to survival over the years and the dedication and craftmenship displayed by all involved over the years that they survive under steam today. Climax #9 had a long road back to service (17 years) but has been completely rebuilt from the trucks up and should give many years of service.

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Shay #5 and Western Maryland Railway BL2 #82 pose by the Cass water tank for a night photo session at twilight.

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