Cincinnati Railway’s GP30, number #85, has been restored to its original as-delivered paint scheme. To celebration its return as Nickel Plate #901, a special excursion has been planned on the Lebanon, Mason, & Monroe Railroad.
Nickel Plate #901 was built by EMD back in 1962. Recently, it has been used by the CNRY for power on their dinner train, and as a backup unit in Lebanon. Restoration began in August and was made possible in part by donations from the member of the Nickel Plate Technical and Historical Society. Final preparations are currently underway in the old Mason locomotive barn, including installation of an original Mars light and number boards.
NKP #901 will leave the Mason engine house overnight on Thursday, September 29th. The special train will depart Lebanon Friday morning. There will be a one-hour lunch layover in Mason at the Brazenhead Pub. The return trip should, weather permitting, include a photo run-by somewhere along the line. The consist is scheduled to include #901 (facing South), the open-air car, and 3 of the ex-Lackawanna coaches. For more information and for tickets, visit the LM&M’s website.
Check back later this week for photos and a brief history on NKP #901. It is currently scheduled to stay in Lebanon through October, and then resume work powering the Cincinnati Dinner Train.
