One of my favorite subjects to photograph in Louisiana is the ex-Crowell & Spencer Lumber Company Steam Locomotive #400. There’s something about capturing images of this locomotive that draws me in. This old locomotive has a presence that resonates with me profoundly. If a picture conveys a thousand words, then this piece of railroad history speaks directly to my soul.
Encountering #400 is a mixed experience. On one hand, it’s exhilarating to stumble upon a vintage steam locomotive nestled at the edge of a Louisiana forest. On the other hand, it’s disheartening to reflect on the majestic machine it once was and to see its current condition. In February 1953, #400 made its final journey, hauling logs to the nearby Crowell Long Leaf Lumber Company before being parked in this spot. Since then, it has endured nearly 70 years of exposure to the elements under the trees.
To be clear, #400 isn’t entirely abandoned; despite its original owner’s departure, the locomotive is part of a collection of three vintage engines located at the Southern Forest Heritage Museum. Museum president Mike Miller has shared plans for eventually restoring all three to their former glory. Remarkably, volunteers have already made significant progress restoring Red River & Gulf 4-6-0 Locomotive #106, which last pulled a train in March 1953. It’s in great shape and could even be fired up and run under its own power today. Next in line for restoration is the Meridian Lumber Company 2-6-0 #202, currently housed in the old railroad machine shop. Interestingly, the tender for #202 is located south of the museum on the old Red River trackage, accompanied by some vintage rolling stock.
Once the restorations of #106 and #202 are complete, the team plans to focus on #400. However, given its state of decay, the project will be challenging and will require considerable funding. I hope this post motivates rail fans across the nation to consider donating to the museum in support of restoring these three historic locomotives—especially for #400, as we want to preserve it before it deteriorates beyond repair. It’s worth mentioning that we are fortunate #400 still exists; in 1955, the Crowell Long Leaf Lumber Company dismantled four other locomotives that were on their property. If you look closely at the photographs below, you can spot the smokestack of one of them in the foreground, along with more remnants to the right of the tracks.
- Photos and Story By Ken Hulsey
You can find this locomotive at:
Feel free to check out my photos and see if #400 resonates with you as deeply as it does with me!
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