As part of the celebration of the 100 year anniversary of Colorado short line San Luis Central, the railroad installed a new tie in the main at Sugar Junction and had a golden spike ceremony. The road’s first diesel, GE 70-ton No. 71 was facing a special passenger train (on left, out of sight) powered by “SLC No. 1,” which is really neighboring railroad San Luis and Rio Grande’s 2-8-0 No. 18 relettered and renumbered to help with the celebrations. The “real” SLC No. 1 was a 1913 Baldwin 2-8-0 named “Little Nell” that operated on the railroad from January 1914, until replaced by No. 71 in 1955, and unfortunately was scrapped. This steam-powered passenger train has brought in guests and family members to Sugar Junction who are now observing long-time employees and retirees drive home the gold spikes. Also partaking in the day’s events is the president of SLC, Ed Burkhardt, standing next to the front steps of No. 71 (in green shirt). After the celebration, everyone will board the train and enjoy a round trip to the end of the line at Center.
