557

As the end of the steam era came to the Alaska Railroad, memories of war time shortages lingered. As a result strategic reserves were part of planning for most organizations. The Alaska Railroad stashed serviceable steam locomotives at several locations. ARR #557 was tucked into the Whittier engine house as of Aug. 31 1957. ARR #561 was under blankets at the edge of the Seward Yard on June 1, 1957. ARR #554 was still parked near the Anchorage Roundhouse as of February 3, 1957. William A. "Art" Gibson was there and captured them for us on colored 35mm transparency film.
 
Photo courtesy of W. A. Gibson Jr.
Commentary by Pat Durand