More than a generation after steam locomotives disappeared from active service Canadians continue to remain fascinated by them. This is true for at least two reasons. They are eminently simple mechanical devices that are easily understood by following the various rods and linkages from the pistons backwards. In a world increasingly surrounded by "black box" technologies, there is something comforting in knowing how the steam locomotive works by seeing the pistons' push and pull of the rods make the wheels go round. Another reason we remain fascinated with them is nostalgia. The sight of a clean locomotive conjures up images of an idealized past where these enormous machines pounded the rails while hauling their trains. There is some truth in these feelings. But it is also important to remember that these machines were home for men over many long hours and under difficult conditions. If they are a reminder of anything, they should call to mind the people who built and ran our railways and thereby helped shape our modern lives.

David W. Monaghan
Curator,
Land Transportation, 1989-2002

This publication is also available as a brochure published in the Curator's Choice series. It is also published in French under the title La salle des locomotives.

For more information please contact:

Danielle Naoufal
Curatorial Division
Canada Science and Technology Museum
P.O. Box 9724, Station T
Ottawa, Ontario
Canada K1G 5A3

E-mail: dnaoufal@technomuses.ca
Fax: 613 990-3636
Telephone: 613 991-3081