Steam Locomotive #2542

Steam Locomotive #2542. . , Locomotive #2542 , a mountain type locomotive , was originally manufactured as locomotive #2906 in 1921 in Lima Ohio. In 1942 the wheel arrangement was reconfigured from a 2-10-2 to a 4-8-2 arrangement, and it was then designated as locomotive #2542. This locomotive is one of only two surviving 2500 class Paducah rebuilds (named for the square "Paducah" sand dome atop the boiler), and its sister locomotive, #2500, presently resides in Centralia, Illinois. These were the largest steam engines in the Illinois Central Railroad fleet with speeds topping out at 85 mph. This locomotive served as a work horse for the ICRR in both passenger and freight service., Owned by the City of McComb, locomotive #2542 was acquired in 1962 through the efforts of former Mississippi Governor Hugh White, the McComb Junior Auxiliary and other civic groups. Her home was Edgewood Park until relocation to this spot on June 21 2000. , In loving memory of Albert Elton "Bill" Andrews ICRR engineer, Mayor of McComb, Sheriff of Pike County. Given by Al E. Andrews. Jr. and Lynda Andrews Calcote., Second marker , Specifications For Engine #2542. , Drive Wheels - 70 Inch Diameter , Boiler Pressure - 240 Pounds per Square Inch , Traction Power - 83,500 pounds , Weights - 280,500 Pounds Total - 255,500 Pounds Tender , Tender Capacity - Coal - 11 Tons - Water 11,000 gallons , Tender - Powered BK Stoker with Auxiliary tank connection , Max Speed - 85 Miles Per Hour., In memory of Cary L. Woods ICRR Engineer, by Mr. and Mrs. JC Woods