Update #2: Brakes Down, Pumps Up (October 2026)

Hello, and welcome to October's progress report!

October has been another busy month for Project 1355, although much of the work undertaken has been in preparation for several substantial projects planned for November and early next year. We will have more to share about those undertakings once they are completed.

First of all, we are thrilled to announce that as of the morning of 10/27/26, the tubes for #1355 were officially ordered. This represents a massive step forward in the boiler restoration of #1355 and brings us another step closer to an eventual hydrostatic test.

Turning our attention to the brakes, all of #1355's brake beams have now been removed. This proved to be a surprisingly stubborn undertaking, requiring several full days of work to loosen and free them from the locomotive. After considerable effort, many cans of PB Blaster, and a generous helping of special sauce, the last of the brake beams finally gave.

Another important task completed this month was the return of the New York Air Brake Duplex compressors generously loaned to us by the Kandiyohi County Historical Society in Willmar, Minnesota. After being reassembled, cleaned, and painted in Sioux City, our contractors and volunteers made the northeastward road trip to Willmar to mount the compressors back in their rightful positions. These compressors were originally removed from Great Northern #2523, a preserved P-2 class 4-8-2 Mountain-type locomotive, and provided us with invaluable replacement parts for #1355's own compressor. We would once again like to extend our sincere gratitude to the Kandiyohi County Historical Society for its generosity and cooperation. Without their assistance, our efforts to return our air compressor to service would have brought about considerable expenses.

In other news, we are also pleased to announce the launch of our newly revamped Project 1355 website! The updated website is much easier to navigate and makes it simpler than ever to follow the restoration, learn about the locomotive, and find information on upcoming volunteer workdays. We encourage everyone to take a look.

https://www.gn1355.org/

As always, we extend our sincere thanks to everyone who continues to support Project 1355, whether through volunteer work, donations, or simply following along with our progress. If you would like to lend a hand with the restoration effort, fill out a volunteer application form on our volunteer page and consider stopping by the museum. We are always happy to welcome new volunteers and introduce people to the work being done to preserve this remarkable piece of Great Northern history. Every helping hand brings us one step closer to seeing #1355 steam again.

Written by:

Cody Foreman, Brenden Albert