The Valley Railroad: Mixed Afternoon Action + Steam Engine 97's first Coach Train run in 12 Years!

Welcome all! Today what I have for you is something we've all been waiting for, Alco built 2-8-0 97's first coach train run in 10 year's! After undergoing a federally mandated 1472 day inspection, 97 returns to regular excursion rotation on the Valley Railroad! While a week or so late for a "Christmas in July" theme, it's still pretty interesting to see 97 wearing its "North Pole Express" lettering on the tender. 40 would power the 11, and 12:30 trains, with 97 taking over on the 2pm and 3:30 shuttle train. Definently cool seeing 97 on its first ever run on the coach train in 10 year's, and I hope you all enjoy it as much as I did!
Date Taken: August 4th, 2023
Gear used: Canon EOS R with a Canon RF 24-105mm f4-7.1
Thumbnail photo: Canon EOS 80D with a Canon EF 70-200mm f2.8 L MKIII

[@northeasternrailfilms]

Great video! They got #97 back just in time for her 100th Anniversary. Welcome back, #97!

[@MiddletownBranchProd.]

she’s back!! hopefully she’s running when I go next

[@northamericanrailfilms3025]

Nice video Chase! I saw you at Essex St.

[@Ian-qs3fz]

her tender is looking pretty sorry

[@danielboone3770]

Ok there's #97! Again I love it a lot!

[@Ian-qs3fz]

weeb

[@danielboone3770]

Love it! Except it's engine #40.

[@BMMEC6000]

Keep watching.