An excursion from Winona, Minnesota southwards to the wye at La Crescent, along the western bank of the Mississippi. Originally intended to be hauled by Frisco 1522, but this had a hot box on the ferry move coming up from St. Louis, so Soo Line supported with their latest rebuild. Historically this was a Milwaukee Road line.
Soo 4301 is a GP30C, originally UP 828 (EMD serial 27537) delivered in August 1962. "Acquired by Generation II Locomotives and rebuilt with a 2,000 Hp. Caterpillar 3516 engine (9/1990). Sold to SOO Line (1991) and renumbered to SOO #4301. Sold to Generation II Locomotives (4/1999)."
It would appear not as successful, as perhaps anticipated, for Soo. However it has worked for Twin Cities & Western since 2000, seen operating earlier in 2026.
It would appear not as successful, as perhaps anticipated, for Soo. However it has worked for Twin Cities & Western since 2000, seen operating earlier in 2026.
This appears to be a different location, but I think both images are in Winona. The supporting power was SD40-2 6617, one of the last SD40-2 built, EMD 827034-1, delivered in April 1983. Now through several changes of ownership, and noted being repainted in 2026.
A Milwaukee Road Super Dome, possibly 53, one of 10 built by Pullman Standard in 1952, with 'Hiawatha' logo over the first truck. I was lucky enough to ride in it.
Sister Generation II GP30C 4300 was on display. This started as GP30 832, EMD serial 27541, of August 1962. It also operated for TC&W, but is now reported scrapped in October 2025.
Budd Vista-Dome Silver Solarium built 1948 for the CB&Q (Burlington Route) 'California Zephyr'. Now in Ohio.
Inside the Super Dome.
Fall colours seen from the dome car, with the Mississippi on the left.
Budd Vista-Dome Silver Solarium built 1948 for the CB&Q (Burlington Route) 'California Zephyr'. Now in Ohio.
Inside the Super Dome.
Fall colours seen from the dome car, with the Mississippi on the left.
