D&RGW Freight. A shaft of localized sunlight illuminates Freight Extra 315 as she emerges from the shadows of the Animas Canyon and crosses the river for a final time before entering Silverton. DRGW 315 is a C-18 Class Consolidation, built in 1895 by the Baldwin Locomotive Works for the Florence & Cripple Creek Railroad. Shortly after that railroad closed down in 1915, she was acquired by the D&RG, where she worked in various roles until 1949. She then spent 50 years alternating in roles ranging from movie prop to park engine before being restored to life by the Durango Railroad Historical Society. She now operates on special occasions, such as this appearance at Railfest 2010 on the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad.
The Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad and the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad are all that remains of the legendary Denver & Rio Grande Western narrow gauge system. Here you'll find some of my favorites from these two beautiful railways.
