HISTORY & MIGHT: THE STORY OF SOUTHERN RAILWAY WRECK CRANE NO. 903008

Journey Through Time: The Legacy of Southern Railway Wreck Crane No. 903008

In the heart of our workshop, history reverberates as we service our iconic Southern Railway wreck crane, No. 903008.

A Storied History

Constructed in 1917 by the renowned Bucyrus Company, this crane has seen a century’s worth of rail history. Originally believed to have its roots in Knoxville, Tennessee, it carries the tales of countless rails, accidents, and repairs. Intriguingly, the crane’s boom has an ancestral link, once being a part of the original Norfolk Southern Railroad crane in Raleigh, North Carolina.

From Steam to Diesel

In the evolving tapestry of railway technology, our crane too underwent a transformation. In 1971, bidding adieu to its steam-powered origins, it embraced diesel power. While the main hook showcases its might by lifting up to 150 tons, the auxiliary hook isn’t far behind with a 40-ton capacity. Yet, to leverage its full power, the boom’s positioning is crucial, needing to stand almost vertical to the load.

Photos Through Time

Our archives hold a fascinating photograph of a twin crane. Captured in 1977 at Provo, Utah, it depicts the Denver & Rio Grande Western crane, still steaming ahead with its original power. Another prized photograph, taken in 2021, showcases our crane’s pivotal role in extending the siding at Polk Street.

In collaboration with Georgian Rail & River Productions, a captivating video has been made available, giving everyone a front-row seat to our crane’s prowess. Dive deep into the visual journey here: Watch the video.