This Chicago and North Western locomotive is having its thirst quenched as the fireman fills its water tank. We’re at the coaling tower in the Proviso yard near Chicago on a cold day in December of 1942. The tender has been filled with coal, and the locomotive’s sand dome is full. This stop at the water penstock completes the fuel and water replenishment. Next comes a thorough greasing of the valve gear and other moving parts, and she’ll be ready for the days labor.

Photograph by Jack Delano