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The Magic of Steam: Steam Locomotives in Poland, 1987-1991

H.G. Wells

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Published in The Magic Of Steam: Steam Locomotives In Poland 1987 1991

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In the twilight of the 20th century, as the diesel and electric locomotives took over the rails, steam locomotives still clung to life in a few corners of the world. One such place was Poland, where a dedicated group of enthusiasts and railway workers kept the fires burning in a fleet of aging steam engines.

The Magic of Steam: Steam locomotives in Poland 1987-1991

by Ann Bourgeois

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From 1987 to 1991, I had the privilege of traveling extensively throughout Poland, photographing these majestic machines. I witnessed the last days of regular steam operations, and I captured the essence of a bygone era in a series of images that have become a testament to the enduring power of steam.

The Legacy of Steam in Poland

The history of steam locomotives in Poland dates back to the mid-19th century, when the first railways were built in the country. Steam locomotives quickly became the dominant form of rail transport, and they played a vital role in the development of Poland's economy and infrastructure.

In the years following World War II, Poland's steam locomotive fleet reached its peak. In 1960, there were over 5,000 steam locomotives in operation on Polish railways. However, the of diesel and electric locomotives in the 1960s and 1970s led to a gradual decline in steam operations.

By the mid-1980s, steam locomotives were largely confined to shunting duties and occasional passenger trains. However, a small but dedicated group of enthusiasts and railway workers were determined to keep the fires burning. They formed the Association of Friends of Polish Railways (TPKP),and they worked tirelessly to preserve and restore Poland's remaining steam locomotives.

The Last Days of Steam

In the late 1980s, I had the opportunity to witness the last days of regular steam operations in Poland. I traveled to various parts of the country, photographing steam locomotives on both passenger and freight trains.

One of the most memorable experiences was a trip on the "Steam Express" from Warsaw to Krakow. This special train was operated by TPKP, and it gave me a chance to ride behind a variety of steam locomotives, including the iconic Ty2 "Mikado" and the smaller Ol49 "Atlantics." The journey was a magical one, and it transported me back to a bygone era.

In addition to the "Steam Express," I also photographed steam locomotives on regular passenger trains. One of my favorite images is of a Pt47 "Pacific" pulling a passenger train through the picturesque countryside of southern Poland. The train is steaming along at a good clip, and the passengers are enjoying the ride.

I also photographed steam locomotives on freight trains. One of my favorite images is of a Su45 "Decapod" hauling a long train of coal cars through the industrial heartland of Silesia. The locomotive is straining against the load, and the smoke and steam are billowing from the stack.

Preserving the Legacy

Although regular steam operations in Poland ended in 1991, a number of steam locomotives have been preserved for posterity. These locomotives are now operated by TPKP, and they can be seen on special excursions and charter trains.

In addition to the locomotives preserved by TPKP, there are a number of other steam locomotives that have been restored to operation by private individuals and organizations. These locomotives are often used for special events, such as steam rallies and heritage railway days.

The preservation of steam locomotives in Poland is a testament to the enduring power of these iconic machines. These locomotives are a reminder of a bygone era, and they continue to captivate people of all ages.

The steam locomotives of Poland have a long and storied history. They played a vital role in the development of the country, and they continue to hold a special place in the hearts of many Poles.

Although regular steam operations ended in Poland in 1991, a number of steam locomotives have been preserved for posterity. These locomotives are a reminder of a bygone era, and they continue to captivate people of all ages.

I am grateful to have had the opportunity to witness the last days of regular steam operations in Poland. The images that I captured during that time are a testament to the enduring power of steam locomotives. I hope that these images will inspire future generations to appreciate the beauty and power of these iconic machines.