J. Craig Thorpe (American, B. 1948) "Texas Locomotive" Signed lower right. Original Oil painting on Paper.

Provenance: Collection of James A. Helzer (1946-2008), Founder of Unicover Corporation.

This painting originally appeared on the Fleetwood Legendary Locomotives of the 50 States Texas Commemorative Cover postmarked November 1, 1994.

When the Southern Pacific Railroad's Sunset Limited was inaugurated on November 1, 1894, it was the longest-distance train in America. Covering a journey of 2,487 miles, it carried passengers between New Orleans and San Francisco. One of the most exciting stretches of the journey took place high above the Pecos River in south Texas. Completed in 1892, the "High Bridge" spanned 2,180 feet and shortened the rail route between San Antonio and El Paso by 11 miles. Hovering 320 feet above the "snarling rapids" of the Pecos, this structure was one of the world's highest bridges at that time. Before crossing, approaching trains were required to stop for about 10 minutes. During this break rail travelers were given an opportunity to admire the engineering marvel. However, the main reason for the rest was to allow the swaying of the bridge, caused by the vibrating rails, to subside. To meet the demands of an increased volume of freight brought on by U.S. involvement in World War II, a new bridge was constructed 440 feet from the old location. On December 21, 1944, the Sunset Limited became the first train to cross the Pecos on this new structure. The engine displayed in this painting, No. 262, was one of many 4-4-0 locomotives assigned to the Sunset. It was built by the Cooke Locomotive Works in 1900.

Image Size: 14 x 12 in.
Overall Size: 18 x 15 in.
Unframed.
(B14876)

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