The Mississippian Railway was somewhat known for its pair of former Frisco 2-8-0 steam locomotives. The Consolidations were numbered 76 and 77, the number proudly displayed on the “coonskin” plate attached to the smokebox door.

In March of 1967 Photographer Karl Zimmermann recorded this view of the #77 and train during its arrival in Amory, Mississippi. The train is approaching the interchange track of the road’s connection to the St. Louis–San Francisco Railway (the Frisco).

I have a sweet spot in my heart for the Mississippian. Back in the late 80s a fellow arranged for the #77 to be transported back to home rails in order to run a special 2-day excursion on the line. I think mine was the first check in the mail. 🙂

James Carlisle was the engineer that weekend (he and his brother Frank were the regular engineers for the #76 and #77 back when they were in revenue service). I spent some time riding in the cab with Mr. Jim, and even got to make some switching moves as a brakeman when he decided to make a pick-up on a Sunday afternoon so he wouldn’t have to make a run on Monday.

This image is from the Karl Zimmermann Collection, Center for Railroad Photography & Art (CRP&A), used by their permission.