Just Jenny

This steam traction engine was built by Owens, Lane, Dyer & Co. of Hamilton Ohio most likely in the 1870s. Its particular gear drive mechanism, along with the incline cylinder distinguish it as an O.L.D. & Co. machine.
According to the story, this steam-powered tractor first saw service in the mines near Placerville. It was later purchased by N.A. and J.E. McKay for use in their logging and sawmill operation on Love Creek near Avery. When the noisy engine was driven on the long road from Placerville to its new home, it made its presence known everywhere it went. An attempt to sneak the engine through Murphys under the cover of darkness was to no avail, as almost the entire town was awakened to witness its arrival.
In order to meet the requirements of its new owners and run on rails, Jenny was fitted with new railroad wheels in front and the rear wheels were altered. All the castings for this retrofit were produced by D.D. Demarest at the Altaville Foundry. Jenny provided service until retirement in 1904.

This photo was taken by an Asahi Pentax 6 X 7 medium format film camera and SMC PENTAX 67 1:4 45mm lens with a Zenza Bronica 67mm SY48•2C(Y2) filter using Kodak 400TX film, the negative scanned by an Epson Perfection V600 and digitally rendered with Photoshop.