SP GS-4 Locomotives

| Technical Data Total Built: 28 Weight: 475,000 lb (215 mt) Length: 108' 2 3/4" (33.0 m) with tender Boiler Pressure: 300 psi (21 kg/sq cm)
Tractive Effort: 64,800 lb (288 kN)
Fuel Capacity: 6,275 gal (23.75 cu m)
Water Capacity: 23,300 gal (88.2 cu m)

Southern Pacific ordered a total of 28 Class GS-4 ("Golden State") locomotives, with streamlined Daylight livery, from Lima Locomotive Works in 1940. The locomotives featured 80" drivers, 25.5" x 32" cylinders and all-weather cabs. Number 4449 is a "Northern" type locomotive with a 4-8-4 wheel arrangement. The 4449 is only remaining operable streamlined steam locomotive of the Art Deco era, having formerly pulled Southern Pacific's famed Daylight passenger trains from Los Angeles to San Francisco over the scenic Coast Route and then on to Portland, Oregon through the Cascade Mountains.

During World War II the construction of railroad locomotives fell under the supervision of the US government. In order to gain approval to add to its roster, Southern Pacific redefined the GS designation to mean "general service." The GS-6 series were painted black with a silver-striped pilot and no sideskirts. These locomotives eventually became known as "War Babies."

Locomotive 4449 was retired in 1957. In 1975-1976, restored to operating condition and repainted in red, white and blue, the 4449 became one of the American Freedom Train locomotives as part of the USA's bi-centennial celebration. In July of 2000, the 4449 was painted glossy black with BNSF decals to head up a BNSF Employee Appreciation Special. The train toured throughout the Pacific Northwest region of the US and Canada.

These days, returned to its original Daylight colors, the locomotive is frequently seen in excursion service throughout the West and Midwest. SP 4449 is owned by the City of Portland, Oregon, and is maintained and operated by the Friends of SP 4449.