Denver and Rio Grande #315

     Once a proud engine of the Florence and Cripple Creek Railroad, the Elkton's (Engine #3) remaining years were like a story of a neglected stepchild. Continuing a short stint with the Denver and Rio Grande, the renumbered 315 moved freight, sat idle for long periods or was relegated to switch yard duties. Awaiting the scrap yard by the mid 1950s, the Durango Rotary Club was instrumental in placing the engine on display in a city park. Catching the eye of Hollywood producers, the engine was converted into a movie prop. Made to look like the Jupiter for scenes in the movie Around the World in 80 Days, the engine was gutted, cut up, and disguised as an earlier locomotive.
     After years of wear, neglect and numerous coats of paint, engine 315 was miraculously restored by the Durango Railroad Historical Society. The 1895 Baldwin locomotive received an incredible overhaul thanks to the efforts a volunteer workforce. After thousands of hours of work, refurbishing every moving part (sometimes replicating parts), the locomotive was re-fired for the first time in 58 years on August 24, 2007. Restored to its 1930s appearance, the 315 runs on special occasions on the Durango and Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad and the Cumbres and Toltec Scenic Railroad. This view captures the 315 as it powers its way along Colorado’s wild and woolly Animas River. Essential for moving gold and silver ore from the San Juan Peaks during the late 19th century, the old Baldwin engine relives the glory days on the Durango and Silverton Railroad line.

   Durango and Silverton Railroad Map