Metamora IN & Whitewater Valley RR - 1977 & 1979

Here are a few photos from Metamora, Indiana and the early years of Whitewater Valley Railroad's operation. I believe the railroad started excursions in 1975 or thereabouts, and these photos were taken in metamora/1977 and 1979. Since then, Metamora and the railroad both have experienced significant investment and the railroad has grown its equipment roster.

Steam is no longer a regular part of the operation, but steam excursions are run on special occasions. Whitewater Valley will feature a visit by Thomas the Tank Engine again in 2008.

All photos © 2008 by Robert E Pence

1977

If my memory is correct, this engine came from East Broad Top Railroad in Pennsylvania and was one of two standard-gauge locomotives owned by that railroad.

Lima-Hamilton #25, built in 1951, powered a caboose train that met the steam train from Connersville in Metamora.

A much larger flour mill stood by the canal in Metamora, powered with a turbine that took advantage of the eight-foot differential in water levels across the lock. That mill burned, and the later, smaller mill was built with a wheel in the former lock to grind corn meal.

1979