60 Years ago today, May 7, 1960, was the last day of steam for the Norfolk & Western Railway

[mahatmakanejeeves]

6. On July 5, 1960, the Duluth, Missabe and Iron Range Railroad ran its last steam-powered train.

Steam & Excursion > DM&IR 2-8-8-4 222

Date: 07/05/20 06:55
DM&IR 2-8-8-4 222
Author: LTCerny

It was 60 years ago today that DM&IR 2-8-8-4 222 pulled that railroad's last steam powered ore train, ending the era of big-time class 1 revenue steam freight in the USA.

Class 1 revenue standard-gauge steam freights continued in lesser roles on the Colorado and Southern (Burlington Lines) on the Leadville branch in Colorado until October 11, 1962 and on the Lake Superior and Ishpeming (which was a class 1 by the then-existing ICC rules) until some date in September 1962.

Of the 12 2-8-0's on the Lake Superior and Ishpeming (LS&I) roster at that date, 10 still survive, with 5 of those having been restored to service for tourist service. Is there any good information and/or photos on the last days of LS&I revenue steam opeation?