Built by Lima Locomotive works, the Shay locomotive was a common sight in the wilderness of the North Western states such as Washington, where 500+ were sent. A total of 2770 Shays were produced. Class B locomotives provided 3 cylinders (wasn't able to fit #3 in) and like most geared locomotives, were capable of exceeding 3% grades hauling a skeleton log car or two. Despite the deep logging history in the Pine Tree State, Maine only recieved a total of 4 Shay locomotives. One noteable one was at Rays Lumber Mill, which I will provide a link in comments with its story.

Shay locomotives were not built for passenger service. They sustained the materials provided at the job, such as for mining they used minerals as ballast, and logging they used unsawed logs. The rides were known for rough and shakey journeys from the log camp to the lumber mills. One railroad in Oregon even went through a river.

If it wasn't for the Shay, the United States and 30 other countries would have changed more than you think. They were the backbone of logging from 1890s to the 40s. 110 of them still survive today, preserved.


Controls: 1 & 2 is lights, trim is throttle, brake to brake. Enjoy!