PHOTO GALLERY

On May 30, 1953 the westbound Columbian gracefully enters a cut two and a half miles east of Alberton behind recently rebuilt Box cabs E-22. WIth Westinghouse motors falling from the ranks and expectations of transferring the passenger Joes to freight service, two sets of Box cabs were selected to be rebuilt for passenger service. The EP=1A class of motors was formed when 1916-built Box cabs were rebuilt at Tacoma in February 1953. The passenger motors had been rewired and equipped with Clarkson steam generators before being assigned to the Rocky Mountain Division. An attempt was made to cosmetically streamline the front end of the locomotive's A-unit, which took on a European flair. The look may have been appropriate in France, but not necessarily Montana or Washington. Locomotive E-23 followed in August 1953 and was assigned to the Coast Division. Unfortunately, after their rebuilding the new EP-1As struggled to make track speed and were rough-riding. (James P. Shuman)

Photograph from Milwaukee Road In Color Vol. 5: Pacific Extension 1941-1961.

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