Wed Sep 18 01:28:41 UTC 2024: ## Rare Locomotive Captured in Historic Photo

**Shopton, Iowa (March 1943)** – A recently discovered photo from the Office of War Information, taken by Jack Delano, reveals a rare glimpse of an unusual locomotive in the Atchison, Topeka and Santa Fe Railway roundhouse. While the photo’s primary focus is on the steam locomotives, the real treasure might be hidden in the background.

The photo shows a number of locomotives, including one equipped with a new safety device, the Automatic Train Stop system. This system, which used trackside signals to control train speed, was a significant development in railway safety.

However, the real mystery lies in the engine in the stall next to the main subject. Experts believe this might be the rare #1398, a converted 4-4-6-2 Mallet locomotive, split into two Pacific type locomotives (#1398 and #1399) in 1915. If confirmed, this photo would be a unique document, capturing one of the rarest locomotives in history.

The original Mallet #1398, built in 1909, was a remarkable engine with 73-inch drivers, the largest ever applied to a Mallet locomotive at that time. Its split into two Pacific type locomotives made them the only members of their class.

The photo has sparked excitement among railway enthusiasts, who are eager to verify the identity of the mystery locomotive. The photo’s detail, including the high-mounted cylinders, headlight, round number plate, and unusual coupler, all point towards the converted Mallet #1398. However, further investigation is needed to confirm its identity.

This discovery highlights the power of historical photos and the internet’s ability to connect people with shared interests. The photo not only provides a fascinating glimpse into the past but also raises intriguing questions about the history of railway engineering and the elusive nature of rare locomotives.

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