Steam Locomotive "Sam Hill," 1858
Add to SetSummary
The design of this 1858 Rogers locomotive accommodates factors and limitations directly connected to the character of American railroads. Its flexible wheel arrangement, high power output, and light weight allow it to perform on the tight curves, steep grades, and hastily-constructed track that characterized cheaply-built American railroads. Cost cutting approaches a preference for cast iron components and the use of thin boiler plates contrast with lavish embellishments. These early locomotives balance practicality, safety, economy, and exuberance; they were rooted in advanced steam technology but were the result of practical problem solving by hands-on engineers. With further refinements, increased size, and a lot less ornament, this basic design remained workable almost until the end of the nineteenth century.
The design of this 1858 Rogers locomotive accommodates factors and limitations directly connected to the character of American railroads. Its flexible wheel arrangement, high power output, and light weight allow it to perform on the tight curves, steep grades, and hastily-constructed track that characterized cheaply-built American railroads. Cost cutting approaches a preference for cast iron components and the use of thin boiler plates contrast with lavish embellishments. These early locomotives balance practicality, safety, economy, and exuberance; they were rooted in advanced steam technology but were the result of practical problem solving by hands-on engineers. With further refinements, increased size, and a lot less ornament, this basic design remained workable almost until the end of the nineteenth century.
Artifact
Steam locomotive
Date Made
1858
Keywords
United States, Georgia, Satilla river
Atlantic & Gulf Railroad Company
Henry Ford (Organization). Greenfield Village
Savannah, Albany, and Gulf Rail Road Company
On Exhibit
at Henry Ford Museum in Transportation - Trains
Object ID
28.680.1
Credit
From the Collections of The Henry Ford.
Material
Brass (Alloy)
Leather
Metal
Wood (Plant material)
Color
Black (Color)
Inscriptions
Sides of tender: ATLANTIC & GULF R.R. Sides of cab: SAM HILL Number plate on front of smokebox: BALDWIN LOCOMOTIVE WORKS 1860 / THE PRESIDENT / OCT. 21, 1929
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