J. Craig Thorpe (American, B. 1948) "New York Locomotive" Signed lower right. Original Oil painting on Paper. Provenance: Collection of James A. Helzer (1946-2008), Founder of Unicover Corporation. This painting originally appeared on the Fleetwood Legendary Locomotives of the 50 States New York Commemorative Cover postmarked May 10, 1995. Built by William Buchanan -- the P.T. Barnum of the Railroad Industry -- No. 999 exuded class. It sported a boiler sheathed in fine Russian iron and a cab fashioned of rich mahogany and maple. Perhaps the most elegant touch was the silver-leaf script emblazoned across its flanks proudly proclaiming "Empire State Express" -- the train it was designed to pull. Throughout its construction in New York Central & Hudson River's West Albany shops, No. 999 was shrouded in mystery to keep the press and rival railroads from learning even the smallest detail about this magnificent piece of engineering. Finally, on May 10, 1893, No. 999's mettle was tested on its first run between the New York cities of Syracuse and Buffalo. On the final 30-mile leg of this stretch, famed engineer Charlie Hogan took the bridle off his iron horse. With the engine's throttle wide open, and fireman Al Elliot shoveling in coal at a breakneck pace, No. 999 sped toward Buffalo like a rocket. After calling out mileposts and comparing readings on the stopwatches of those onboard, it was claimed that the newest NYC&HR locomotive had reached an astounding speed of 112.5 miles per hour! Although this record was never officially proven, No. 999's popularity skyrocketed after its maiden run. Just two months later, the locomotive became one of the star attractions at the World's Columbian Exposition in Chicago. Today, No. 999 is once again in the "Windy City," where it is on permanent display at the Museum of Science and Industry. Image Size: 14 x 12 in. Overall Size: 17 x 14.25 in. Unframed. (B14786) See More