FISH CAMP, CA – A nearly century-old steam locomotive with deep roots in California’s Sierra Nevada is officially on its way home.
Shay Locomotive No. 12, a historic West Side Lumber Company engine, has successfully completed a key milestone in its journey back to California following a hydrostatic boiler test conducted Tuesday, January 20,
under the supervision of Bob Becker with the State of Colorado. The test, a critical safety requirement for steam locomotives, was completed without issue at the Colorado Railroad Museum, clearing the way for the locomotive’s relocation.
With the test behind her, Shay No. 12 is now being prepared for transport to Fish Camp, where she will join her West Side “sisters,” locomotives No. 10 and No. 15, at the Yosemite Mountain Sugar Pine Railroad. Once on site, the engine will undergo a full mechanical and cosmetic restoration aimed at returning her to active service on the historic line.
Railroad officials say the restoration effort will be supported by the construction of a dedicated locomotive house designed to properly protect and maintain the engine for decades to come. The project represents a significant investment in preserving the region’s logging and railroad heritage.
“This locomotive is an important piece of Sierra history,” organizers said, noting that bringing Shay No. 12 back to operational condition will allow visitors to experience living history rather than simply viewing it behind ropes or museum glass.
Gratitude was extended to numerous individuals who played behind-the-scenes roles in making the return possible, including Lindsey and Rosa Ashby, Mark Greksa, Phil Johnson, and Jeff Taylor. Additional thanks were shared for Phil Reader, Jeff Badger, and Steve Butler, who are expected to arrive this spring to assist with the hands-on restoration work.
Built in April 1926 for the Swayne Lumber Company, Shay No. 12 later became part of the famed West Side Lumber Company fleet, which operated extensive logging railroads throughout the Sierra Nevada. The locomotive is a superheated, three-truck Shay weighing approximately 60 tons—an engineering design well suited for steep grades and tight curves common in mountain logging operations.
If restoration efforts remain on schedule, there is optimism that Shay No. 12 could return to service later this season, just in time to help celebrate her 100th birthday.
The Yosemite Mountain Sugar Pine Railroad is scheduled to reopen for the season on March 28. Visitors are encouraged to follow along as the restoration progresses and to plan a visit to see this historic locomotive reunited with her West Side counterparts in the heart of the Sierra.
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