Eureka, Historic locomotive in Las Vegas, Nevada

Eureka is a preserved steam locomotive built in 1875 and now displayed in Las Vegas, showcasing the machines that powered Nevada's mining industry. The engine retains its original fire-box arrangement and tender car, with all mechanical systems visible for examination.

The locomotive was built in 1875 during Nevada's mining boom when railroads connected mining settlements to supply hubs and larger towns. This machine represents an important chapter when steam power became essential for frontier survival and economic growth.

Built in 1875 for the Eureka and Palisade Railroad, the locomotive hauled passengers and goods between the mining town of Eureka and the Central Pacific connection at Palisade. Its name comes from that town, and a Baldwin catalogue recorded it averaging 34.17 mph on the upgrade run with a single passenger coach.

The Eureka is not on public display: it is kept in a purpose-built shed belonging to owner Dan Markoff, and that shed is closed to visitors. It leaves only for special events at narrow-gauge tourist railroads such as the Cumbres and Toltec and the Nevada State Railroad Museums in Carson City and Boulder City. Check those events before planning a trip.

The Eureka keeps its original boiler and several original components, which is why owner Dan Markoff limits how often it runs. It is the only operable survivor of three preserved Baldwin class 8-18 C 4-4-0 locomotives in the United States.