I would just love to see the interior when this is finished.
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My 2nd favorite paint scheme, after AT&SF blue/yellow warbonnet, Awesome!!!!
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Makes a note; "Places to stay when in Montana". Nice.
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Awesome photo and information, Mr. Conway! I didn't realize this was a former Santa Fe unit, but you're correct about having to admire the "Big Sky Blue" paint scheme! I checked the Izaak Walton Inn website http://www.izaakwaltoninn.com/ and the cost to rent the 441 will be $299 per night with a three-night minimum stay. At these prices, I'm not sure how popular it will be, but I believe there's a market for something like this. I know I'd like to rent it at some point in the future, but it may have to wait until after I've won the lottery! Seriously, I have little doubt the 441 will be a good money-maker for the Inn. I'm also curious to see exactly where they place the 441 near the Inn. Thanks for a great photo!
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| Posted by K100DS on August 25, 2009 | |
That's certainly a new and unique use for a gutted locomotive.
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Except for those funky "fans" on top, it looks really good. Hopefully the folks at the I.W. Inn won't cut big lame picture windows or install sliding glass doors in it like I've seen done on cabooses that have been converted to rooms. Honestly though, without those things, it'll be kind of like having a fancy room in a submarine! Maybe installing a deck on one side and using the engine compartment access doors would work, but that's coming from a hardcore railfan that loves locomotives. Not sure if the average non foamer would enjoy it so much! I'm glad to hear that the cab will be kept in its stock form. I'd be happy if that were the only "room" with a view.
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The "Funky Fans" on top of the unit are covers for the cooling fan skylights. Yes, that's right, the cooling fans are still in place and glass covers the top of them! All the cooling fans and dynamic brake fans are skylights. The covers are used for transit to Essex and they will also be used in the winter. When the covers are not in place, the cooling fans and dynamic brake fans look normal. As for the picture windows, the side mechanical access doors are electrically operated and swing open revealing large picture windows! The planning that went into this project is incredible and every effort was used to preserve the unit's appearance while offering some really stellar luxuries. The craftsmanship is outstanding and a lot of TLC went into the GN 441 project.
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I thought I was seeing things when I first saw this picture. Awesome shot!
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As stated now on the website, the minimum stay is only 2 nights, not three anymore.
GN441 started life as ATSF 5910 and later became Utah Railway 9013. It was retired in 2001 and in 2008 it was restored minus its prime mover. There is a you-tube video outlining the conversion from working, yet tired, locomotive to luxury and unique accomodations. The look of this F45 is the only time you could find one in GN livry. I would love to see more photos of this.
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