Olwein Iowa CGW Railroad Round House Locomotive 604 Real Photo Postcard
Mallet locomotives, such as Chicago Great Western Engine No. 604, represented a significant advancement in steam power during the early 20th century. Developed by Anatole Mallet, these articulated engines were designed for exceptionally high tractive effort, enabling them to haul extremely heavy freight trains over steep grades and tight curves. With a listed weight of 252 tons, a length of 82 feet, and 84 tons of tractive power, this specific locomotive was among the powerful machines utilized by American railroads for demanding tasks.
The Chicago Great Western Railway, operating across the American Midwest, relied on such robust engines to support its extensive freight operations, connecting major hubs like Chicago, Kansas City, and Minneapolis/St. Paul. The deployment of large Mallet-type locomotives was indicative of the intensifying demands of rail transport during the early-to-mid 20th century, facilitating the movement of raw materials and manufactured goods essential for the burgeoning economy and showcasing the peak of steam locomotive engineering.
The Chicago Great Western Railway, operating across the American Midwest, relied on such robust engines to support its extensive freight operations, connecting major hubs like Chicago, Kansas City, and Minneapolis/St. Paul. The deployment of large Mallet-type locomotives was indicative of the intensifying demands of rail transport during the early-to-mid 20th century, facilitating the movement of raw materials and manufactured goods essential for the burgeoning economy and showcasing the peak of steam locomotive engineering.
