Back photo says: St Louis, Mo

Alton Route Steam Locomotive 5298 holds a fascinating history. Originally, it was the Chicago & Alton’s No. 659 of class I-6. Let’s delve into the details:

• Locomotive Type: 4-6-2 Pacific
• Number: 5298
• Origin: Chicago & Alton Railroad
• Manufacturer: American Locomotive Company (ALCO)
• Year Built: 1921
• Ownership Transition: Under Baltimore & Ohio (B&O) ownership, the Chicago & Alton Railroad operated some experimental B&O power on its crack passenger trains.
• Renumbering and Reclassification: The B&O renumbered and reclassified the Chicago & Alton’s locomotives. These identifications persisted even after the Alton Route regained independence and during the Gulf, Mobile & Ohio (GM&O) era.
• Fate: Unfortunately, all former Alton Route steam locomotives were scrapped by 1950.

Here’s a glimpse of the Alton Route Steam Locomotive 5298:

For more captivating images of Alton Route steam power, you can explore the Richard Leonard’s Gulf, Mobile & Ohio Gallery. These locomotives evoke a sense of nostalgia and the golden age of rail travel. 🚂🌟