Save Our Steamers was formed in 2010 to help ease the cost of some significant repairs that are needed by a few of the steam engines owned by WMSTR (Western Minnesota Steam Threshers Reunion). Currently, we have a few steam engines that are in need of significant repair. Our, (new boiler) 1915 Case 50 Steam Engine, and Port Huron engine which has been out of service for about 6 seasons now, also needing significant repair. The ’75 case was put back into service in 2011 with a new boiler and many hours of volunteer work to transfer all of the running gear to the new boiler. The Rumely engine is currently undergoing it’s restoration. We located a boiler and after some repairs to ensure many decades of operation, it’s stating to come together. It is tentatively scheduled to appear again at the 2013 Show.
These engines were ‘red flagged’ due to potential safety issues, and there is no reason to take a chance with safety, so these engines will be repaired before running again.
Photo by Tim Dachtera
Pictured above is WMSTR’s 75 Case Steam Engine, known for it’s lively displays at spark shows, donning glow sticks and operated by Erik ‘Ned’ Mars and crew. This engine has been very active in helping newcomers to Steam get their required hours and education, as Erik has made it available for our annual Steam School.
The 75 originally ran a sawmill near Park Rapids Minnesota in it’s early years, and was one one of the first steam engines to come to Rollag, along with the 50 Case.
As of March, 2011, the 75 Case has been brought back to life with a new boiler and many hours of hard work by a number of WMSTR volunteers and others. This was made possibly partly by Donations to the SOS fund, and the WSMTR Endowment Fund.
