July 18, 2023
Class I

CPKC: ‘Final Spike Steam Tour’ Set for April 2024

Written by William C. Vantuono, Editor-in-Chief

Wikipedia

Canadian Pacific Kansas City (CPKC) on April 14, 2024, will mark the first anniversary of its creation with the launch of its Final Spike Steam Tour. The 2816 Empress steam locomotive, hauling a CPKC business train, will depart Calgary, Alta., and travel through the U.S. and into Mexico.

2816, a 4-6-4 Hudson-type steam locomotive, was built in 1930 by Montreal Locomotive Works. It served as a “roving steam-powered ambassador” for Canadian Pacific (CP) throughout Canada and the U.S. before being placed in storage in 2012, according to CPKC. Recently, the locomotive’s boiler/firebox/cab assembly was reunited with its pilot truck, drivers and trailing truck, and the unit completed a stationary steam test. It has been undergoing main line testing. CPKC said it continues to undergo preparations for next year’s long-distance tour, including being equipped with Positive Train Control.

“Our unique, unrivaled railway network connects a continent and links Canada, the U.S. and Mexico,” CPKC President and CEO Keith Creel said. “On April 14, 2023, we drove a ceremonial Final Spike completing that continental connection. We look forward to proudly celebrating that historic railway moment with a special tour starring the 2816, honoring our history and looking forward to an exciting future filled with opportunities for our railroaders, customers and communities.”

Following a special anniversary event in Calgary on April 13, 2024, the 2816 will leave Calgary on April 14, 2024, traveling to stops in Moose Jaw, Sask.; Minot, N.D.; St. Paul, Minn.; Bensenville, Ill.; Davenport, Iowa; Kansas City, Mo.; Shreveport, La.; Laredo, Tex.; and Monterrey and Mexico City, Mexico. The public will be able to see the 2816 up close in these cities, according to CPKC, which noted that additional details about the stops and related events will be available in early 2024.

Railway Age nearly two years ago broke the news of 2816’s return to steam. On Sept. 17, 2021, the day after CP and KCS officially announced their merger agreement, CPKC President and CEO Keith Creel told Editor-in-Chief William C. Vantuono that the 2816 would return to the rails in a transnational tour to commemorate the historic transaction, provided the Surface Transportation Board approved the merger. STB gave its blessing on March 15, 2023.