In mid-November, Sandstone Estates in the Eastern Free State will play host to a unique event celebrating the magic of old machines. The gathering, which includes steam locomotives, trains, planes, automobiles, tanks, and tractors, promises to be an exciting experience for enthusiasts. The event is a testament to the enduring appeal of steam technology and the nostalgia it evokes. Visitors will have the opportunity to witness these vintage machines in action.
The event features a collection of steam locomotives, including the narrow-gauge No. 153, built in 1968 by Hunslet-Taylor. This locomotive is one of the last batch of steam engines ordered by the old South African Railways and now resides at Sandstone Estates. Steam enthusiasts, known as "foamers," travel from around the world to experience the thrill of steam locomotives. They pay to breathe in the soot, dig at the coal, work the levers, and make these massive machines roll over 26km of narrow-gauge tracks.
James Egan, an electrician and trainee locomotive driver from Sydney, is one of the international visitors attending the event. He notes that steam trains require constant checking and that each one is unique, much like people. Egan describes the process of preparing a steam locomotive, which takes two hours and involves making adjustments to get the machine running smoothly. The visiting drivers and firemen are the stars of the event, with international steam photographers recording their every move.
Sandstone Estates is home to the largest private collection of narrow-gauge locos and rolling stock in the world, courtesy of Wilfred Mole. Mole is a preservation legend who has dedicated himself to keeping South Africa's steam heritage intact. He has a keen eye for spotting old trains and has collected locomotives from as far afield as Angola and the gold mines of the Reef. His collection is a testament to the country's rich steam history.
Lukas Nel, one of South Africa's last working steam fitters, plays a crucial role in maintaining the steam engines at Sandstone Estates. Nel takes pride in bringing old locomotives back to life and is often called upon to work on short notice when a new locomotive arrives. He believes that people are drawn to steam locomotives because of their complexity and the way they move. Nel's passion for steam technology is evident in his work, and he is often overcome with emotion when seeing old locomotives that have fallen into disrepair.
The event at Sandstone Estates also celebrates the history of steam locomotives in South Africa. Migrant mineworkers would toss money into the Orange River as they crossed it by steam train, believing that a deity or watersnake needed to be appeased. The children of nearby Bethulie village would stand under the railbridge, waiting to catch the glittering coins. Poets have written about the labourers on steam trains, likening the locos to fire-breathing dragons.
The gathering at Sandstone Estates is a celebration of steam locomotive history and culture. Master driver Les Labuschagne, whose father and uncle worked on the railways, is one of the experts who will be sharing his knowledge. The event promises to be an unforgettable experience for steam enthusiasts and anyone interested in the history of steam locomotives in South Africa. Visitors will have the opportunity to witness these magnificent machines in action and learn about their significance in the country's history.
Key points
- The event at Sandstone Estates features a collection of steam locomotives and other vintage machines.
- Wilfred Mole owns the largest private collection of narrow-gauge locos and rolling stock in the world.
- Lukas Nel is one of South Africa's last working steam fitters and plays a crucial role in maintaining the steam engines at Sandstone Estates.
