Two years after its move from Prineville, the historic Mount Emily Shay No. 1 locomotive goes on display in Portland

PORTLAND, Ore. (KTVZ) -- Visitors to the Oregon Rail Heritage Center in Southeast Portland can observe and learn about the museum's "newest" steam locomotive. on Wednesday, crews positioned the historic Mount Emily Shay #1 inside the Enginehouse for the first time.

The locomotive came to the center from Prineville in 2022 after the Oregon Historical Society, which had owned the Shay for decades, selected Oregon Rail Heritage Center to be its permanent home.

Geared locomotives like the Shay enabled the growth of Oregon's logging industry. The powerful engines could handle steep, uneven terrain in order to transport cut logs to mills. 

Mount Emily Shay #1 was built in 1923 by Lima Locomotive Works in Ohio. The Mount Emily Lumber Company in LaGrande, Oregon, purchased the Shay in 1928 and operated it until 1955. Under care of the Oregon Historical Society, the locomotive was leased to the Cass Scenic Railroad in Virginia and then to the city of Prineville, its home from 1994 through 2022.

After necessary maintenance, Mount Emily Shay #1 will pull passengers on ORHC excursions. 

The locomotive had been stored in ORHC's yard under wraps since being moved last year to Portland from the City of Prineville Railway. When space recently opened up inside the working museum's Enginehouse, crews were able to unbundle the locomotive, wash it down and move it under cover.  

In addition to powering excursion runs, Mount Emily Shay #1 will be the centerpiece of a logging industry exhibit at the museum that is coming soon. 

The Shay is the first steam locomotive owned by Oregon Rail Heritage Center. The museum also cares for three historic steam locomotives owned by the City of Portland--SP 4449, famous for pulling the American Freedom Train in 1975-76; the SP&S 700 and the OR&N 197. The former two engines are operable; work is well underway to restore the 197 to operating status. 

Persons interested in viewing the Mount Emily Shay #1 can visit the Oregon Rail Heritage Center during open hours Thursdays through Sundays, 1-5 pm. 

About Oregon Rail Heritage Center

The Oregon Rail Heritage Center (ORHC) is a non-profit organization dedicated to preserving and celebrating Oregon’s rich railroad heritage. Located in Portland, OR, the center showcases historic locomotives, exhibits, and educational programs that connect the public to the legacy of rail transportation in the Pacific Northwest. ORHC is home to the iconic steam engines SP 4449, SP&S 700, and OR&N 197, offering visitors an interactive and hands-on experience with the golden age of railroading. Through its events, educational tours, and volunteer programs, ORHC continues to inspire generations to appreciate the impact of railroads on local history and industry. For more information, visit www.orhf.org.