Restoring Locomotive 46

Upgrades to historic 1946 GE Engine are complete!

The Lake Superior & Mississippi Railroad suspended operations from 2020 to 2022, first for the COVID pandemic and then for the Spirit Lake/US Steel Super Fund clean-up project. It was an opportunity to restore the running gear (wheels and trucks) of our locomotive 46. Loco 46 (a GE 44 Ton engine) was built in 1946 for the Flambeau Paper Plant in Park Falls, WI. The LSMR acquired it in 1985. The restoration started with lifting the cab and engines so the running gear could be removed. In 2024, everything was put back together. Loco 46 will be in service for years to come. The project was only possible with the help of generous corporate and private donations and the work of many volunteers.

Time lapse video of lifting the 50-ton Locomotive 46 to remove wheels and trucks and place temporary ones. Thanks to Vic’s crane and Duke Boys Towing for making this possible.

Preparing to lift the locomotive off it's trucks

Preparing to lift the locomotive off it's trucks Lifting the locomotive

Note the trucks below the Locomotive.

Trucks are lifted on to a semi- trailer and tied down for transportation to Pennsylvania for reconditioning

Trucks on the Truck Trailer

The Lake Superior & Mississippi Railroad acknowledges and greatly appreciates the help of many sponsors and donors in returning Locomotive 46 to service. We could not have done it without them. Click here to know more about these great partners.

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We are excited to continue sharing the stories and spectacular views of the St Louis River estuary and our historic river train with you!

Lake Superior & Mississippi Railroad Statement of Non-Discrimination & Inclusiveness

The LSMR strives to provide an inclusive environment in which the values of volunteers and passengers are respected. LSMR leaders recognize and appreciate diverse perspectives for group decisions to achieve effective collaborative compromise. Volunteer assignments are made without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, age, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, or disability provided the volunteer meets safety and performance requirements as specified by federal regulations or railroad policy.