DENVER & RIO GRANDE WESTERN 'MUDHENS'

摘要

The answer to the "Ask Trains" question [page 65, October] as to why some Rio Grande steam locomotives are referred to as "Mudhens" is not correct. Before the locomotive class K-27 Nos. 450-464, Denver & Rio Grande Western narrow gauge engines had inside frames and if they derailed, they would often turn over on their sides. The Mudhens were the first class of narrow gauge engine with outside frames. When they derailed, they generally came to rest on these wider frames. Figuratively speaking, they would squat down just like a real mudhen does when she's frightened. These engines were not prone to derailments, but rather rode very well.