We drove over to Saltville this afternoon and were stunned to see what has taken place since our last visit during Labor Day Weekend.<div><br></div><div>D.E. Eakin and Sons, Inc of Roanoke has a contract, being funded by the town of Saltville and a grant from VDOT, to restore the two ex- Mathieson Alkali Works locomotives and has brought them around to be visual head-turners (disregarding the white-painted wheels, of course).</div>
<div><br></div><div>I attach a view of the former N&W 2-8-0 sold to Mathieson in 1922.</div><div><br></div><div>In today's Saltville Progress, Roger A. Allison has written a fine, detailed account of the restoration effort and the history of the two steam engines. </div>
<div><br></div><div>Also, the enclosure and surrounding sidewalks and grounds are being given a professional redo. Expect Saltville will now become a distinct destination for railfans.</div><div><br></div><div>Mike Pierry, Jr.</div>