Bullard No. 2: Cosmetically Restored for Exhibition

Cosmetically restored Bullard No. 2 parked in the core complex at Steamtown NHS

NPS Photo

 

Visitors to Steamtown NHS were treated with a display of Baldwin Locomotive Works No. 26 and Bullard No. 2 on the historic turntable

NPS Photo

On Saturday, July 5, 2025, Steamtown NHS marked both Independence Day weekend and the 30th anniversary of its 1995 grand opening by unveiling Bullard No. 2. In the midst of the busy holiday weekend, a hush fell over the crowd at Steamtown National Historic Site as Bullard Company No. 2 made its ceremonial debut on the park’s historic turntable.

The 1937 narrow-gauge 0-4-0T locomotive was proudly unveiled before a crowd of enthusiastic visitors, rail fans, volunteers and staff — marking the culmination of a 15-year journey since its removal from public display. While restoration work occurred intermittently over that time, efforts were rejuvenated in 2022 to complete the cosmetic transformation.

Baldwin Locomotive Works No. 26 pushed Bullard into position, signaling a long-awaited moment made possible by the hands-on dedication of volunteers, staff and interns. Though the restoration was cosmetic and the engine remains non-operational, the display highlights the continued mission of Steamtown to preserve and interpret America’s rich railroading legacy.