The Pier Train, built in 1899 ”“ one year after the opening of The Pier ”“ weighed 100 pounds and was the smallest steam locomotive in the world. It ran the entire length of The Pier in Old Orchard Beach. Like the Dummy, it had no provisions for turning around; when it reached its destination, it backed up to the beginning. The train, shown on this rare, old postcard, only lasted one year. Twin trains, with larger engines, began in 1906, running simultaneously and meeting midway where one would pull to the side and watch the other pass. These trains lasted until the fire in August 1907, which destroyed much of the town.
— Submitted by Jim Leary, Saco
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Readers are invited to submit old photographs for use in this weekly feature. Call the News Department at the Journal Tribune, 282-1535, Ext. 329, with any questions.
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