Locomotives

Just as legendary as the route of the "Slow & Easy" were the iron horses which sometimes "galloped" along its uneven rails. Individually or collectively, the locomotives of Sevierville were some of the most unique in shortline history. Characteristics of this all-time roster included:

• a diminutive 1880s-vintage Consolidation which operated for over 60 years;
• probably the smallest standard gauge Pacific ever built, custom-designed for operations in the Smoky Mountains;
• one of the last operating Moguls in Tennessee (and perhaps anywhere in the U.S.A.);
• the fourth General Electric 44-ton diesel switcher ever built.

Despite the diversity of its roster, the "Slow & Easy's" dedicated men were able to keep at least one engine in operable condition over the years. This was somewhat miraculous, given the Sevierville shop's limitations. Still, an independent spirit prevailed in the company. Veteran engineer Jack Foster personified this spirit when asked what schedule his train ran on; he insisted, "Whenever we get damned good and ready."

WEBMASTER'S NOTE: Our sincere thanks to Mr. Jerry Dowling for his generous assistance in compiling this all-time locomotive roster.