The 50th anniversary of 576 sitting there in the park
has come and gone... will she stay there another 50
years ? Or be scrapped long before than due to deterioration
from the weather?
#576 was given to the City of Nashville by the NC&StL
as a reminder of the importance of steam. As it turned out,
this made #576 the only surviving NC&StL steam engine.
#576 has been on display since 1953 in Centennial Park, slowly
watching the years go past. The engine, though a mechanical
marvel, has done service largely as a piece of playground
equipment. #576 is a perfect engine for restoration - large
enough and flexible enough to pull a big enough train to make
a profit on more restrictive trackage, while still being small
enough to operate with economy. However, it still sits as
a piece of playground equipment.
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Unfortunately, these signs have gone unheeded.
Even the City Parks have ignores their own signs. They have
not helped maintain the engine. Volunteers paint the engine
when they can, paying out of their own pockets. Asbestos and
lube oil hang off of the engine and leak on to the ground.
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The condition of the engine is deplorable.
Vandals have taken their toll over the years. Parts have
been stolen off of the engine. Every original piece of glass
on the engine has been shattered. The cab is littered with
the detritus of parties, beer cans and cigarette buts. Inspection
panels are missing. Floors are almost rusted through. Decay
is everywhere. |
In keeping with our charter, the NCPS wants to restore #576
to operating condition. By operating the engine, income for
future maintenance can be assured. Every day that passes the
chances of restoring this engine successfully grow worse.
Every smashed valve or part, every stolen element lessens
the chance. IF the engine is to be saved, it must be rescued
from the neglect and negligence it is currently suffering.
With your help, #576 can be restored to vibrant powerful
life. Without your help, #576 will share the fate of the
other J3's.
Cut up by the scrappers torch, some decades later than the
others. Your donation, your membership, and your volunteer
efforts will prevent this grisly fate. Please help us preserve
this vital piece of Nashville's, Tennessee's, and the NC&StL's
history. |