First Steam Powered Train Since 1949 on New York Central Railroad

KINGSTON, N.Y. -- For the first time since 1949, a steam locomotive rode the rails on the New York Central Railroad.

Catskill Mountain Railroad Company leased the engine as part of a special event this weekend.

The Viscoe Number 6 pulled folks in the Kingston City Limited Train along the route.

The Superintendent says it's unique events like these that help keep the Catskill Mountain Railroad from going off the rails.

"If we were just running our regular train, we wouldn't have a quarter of the riders that we have today," Catskill Mountain Railroad Superintendent Earl Pardini said. "So, this is really a special event."

Several tons of clean-burning coal were used to power the steam engine.

Pardini says the company's lease runs out May 31, so it's important for people to book tickets over the next few weeks, as it may be the last time to catch a ride.