St. Louis Southwestern 819

St. Louis Southwestern 819 is a steam locomotive at the Arkansas Railroad Museum in Pine Bluff, built with four driving axles and two trailing axles for power and stability. The engine represents one of the final models produced by the St. Louis Southwestern Railway before the company stopped building locomotives.

Built in 1943, this locomotive was the last one manufactured by the St. Louis Southwestern Railway before the company ended locomotive production. It operated in regular service until 1953, when it was retired from active duty.

The locomotive arrived in Pine Bluff in 1955 when local school children helped fund its preservation by purchasing shares in the project. This shows how the community valued its railroad heritage as part of local identity.

The locomotive is on display at the Arkansas Railroad Museum in Pine Bluff, where visitors can view it up close. Plan your visit during the museum's operating hours and wear comfortable walking shoes, as the site covers outdoor areas.

This locomotive holds the official status of state symbol for Arkansas, a rare honor among American engines. Few visitors realize that before becoming a museum piece, it logged substantial miles in revenue service across multiple states.

Location: Pine Bluff

Inception: 1942

Part of: St. Louis Southwestern Railway class L1

GPS coordinates: 34.22694,-91.98472

Latest update: December 9, 2025 18:43