A year ago, I was invited to participate in the firing up and preparation of Cuba’s oldest operational steam locomotive, running on the narrow-gauge railway around Rafael Freyre near Holguín. Locomotive number 1180 from 1882.
It was an interesting experience, especially the handling of such an old oil-fired locomotive.
Unfortunately, this was one of the last times the locomotive was under steam for the time being.
Leaks developed in the firebox area later that year, and the boiler was dismantled for repairs.
With great anticipation, I traveled to Rafael Freyre in January this year. What would the condition of the old steam locomotive be? Will there be a chance to see it under steam again in 2025?
I have made a short video report from Freyre, where we also see the railcars that are still in use on this two-and-a-half-foot (760 mm) narrow-gauge railway around the former sugar mill.
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Enjoy!