CLEVELAND — The American Steam Railroad Preservation Association has received a $1,000 donation from a longtime supporter for the restoration of Reading T-1 4-8-4 No. 2100.
Louis Schillinger, president and CEO of United Shortline Insurance Services, has donated the funds to help complete the forging and machining of 560 new staybolts needed for the firebox.
“I have personally participated in the restoration, retubing, and use of No. 2100 since 2007,” Schillinger said in a press release. “It was my honor to be able to continue my efforts to support the ongoing restoration of this spectacular example of our steam history through ASR.”
Schillinger has worked with ASR over the past five years by assisting and transferring interest in Reading 2100 to the group, along with providing ASR’s insurance needs.
“Working with Louis has been a real pleasure,” said ASR president Steven Harvey. “It’s been great to work with someone who shares the same goals of restoring such a historic piece of equipment.”
The staybolt forging and machining will bring the engine closer to a hydrostatic test of the boiler. Processes still to be done before a test include welding the staybolts in, along with forming and replacing the two arch tubes in the firebox. A new fundraising campaign will soon be announced for these projects.
I had a great time riding on the Blue Mountain and Reading train to Jim Thorpe PA last year and can’t wait to come ride behind the 2100!!!
“GIVE WITH BING”GOODSEARCH is now cash back.