There’s something unforgettable about the sound of a steam whistle echoing through the mountains — and when it’s coming from a locomotive that once served in World War II, that sound becomes a piece of living history.
In July, we took a ride on steam engine No. 1702 out of Bryson City, North Carolina, and it was more than just a scenic train trip — it was a moving journey through time.
🔧 Built for War: The Origins of Engine 1702
Steam engine No. 1702 was born in 1942, in the thick of World War II. Built by Baldwin Locomotive Works in Pennsylvania, it was one of hundreds of 2-8-0 “Consolidation”-type locomotives commissioned by the U.S. Army Transportation Corps. These engines were designed for rugged durability, made to haul military supplies, equipment, and even troops across American rail lines — and sometimes into active war zones abroad.
The 2-8-0 design (referring to its wheel arrangement: two leading wheels, eight driving wheels, and no trailing wheels) was chosen for its strength and reliability. It was practical, not flashy. Exactly what the war effort needed.
No. 1702 didn’t head overseas, but it played its part here at home, supporting the logistics of a global conflict.
🛤️ From Army Asset to Civilian Workhorse
After the war, like many military locomotives, 1702 was sold off to a civilian railroad — the war was over, but the engine still had plenty of life left in her.
She spent years working on various short-line railroads, doing the kind of behind-the-scenes hauling that powered America’s postwar growth. But eventually, even steam engines get replaced. By the late 20th century, diesel locomotives had taken over, and No. 1702 faced the same fate as many of her sisters: retirement, and likely the scrapyard.
🚂 Saved and Restored in the Smokies
Fortunately, that’s not how this story ends.
In the 1990s, 1702 was acquired by the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad, a heritage railway based in Bryson City, North Carolina. But time had taken its toll. It would take decades — and over a million dollars — to fully restore her.
That restoration was completed in 2016, and since then, 1702 has been proudly pulling passengers once again through the Nantahala Gorge and surrounding mountains. She remains one of the few operational WWII-era steam locomotives in the United States.
🎟️ Our Ride in July: History in Motion
In the middle of July, we boarded the train and settled into our seats behind the same engine that once served the U.S. military. The route wound through lush mountain scenery, past rivers, forests, and small towns frozen in time.
The experience was more than just beautiful — it was thoughtfully curated. There was food available onboard, live music that gave it a festive feel, and even a railroad historian walking through the cars, sharing details about the engine, the tracks, and the region’s railroad legacy.
It felt like a rolling museum exhibit, only with real steam, coal smoke drifting through the air, and the rhythmic chuff-chuff-chuff of the past alive and in motion.
🏔️ Why It Matters
Too often, we think of history as something trapped behind glass. But stepping onto that train reminded me that some stories still move — literally. The Great Smoky Mountains Railroad isn’t just a tourist attraction; it’s preservation. It’s honoring the machinery and the people who built this country, fought its wars, and laid its tracks.
No. 1702 was built for wartime duty, but today, she serves a different purpose — reminding us where we’ve been and letting us ride along for the journey.
📍 If you go:
The Great Smoky Mountains Railroad is based in Bryson City, NC. Steam excursions are seasonal and often sell out, especially when No. 1702 is on the schedule. Check their website for tickets, schedules, and special event rides.
Want more pieces like this? Follow along as I dig into the places, people, and artifacts that keep history alive — one stop at a time.
Until next time, keep your eyes on the rails and your heart in the past.
— The History Girl