Elkhart's historic Mohawk steam engine to be restored

ELKHART, Ind. -- The City of Elkhart Railroad Museum held a press conference Wednesday morning and announced that the historic Mohawk engine that has sat on site for over 30 years is set to be fully restored and returned to service.

Museum officials said that, in partnership with the Fort Wayne Railroad Historical Society, the National New York Central Railroad Museum and The City of Elkhart, the Mohawk will be restored to "ensure its longevity and preserve its historical significance."

The Museum says there are only two of these engines left in existence around the country

The National New York Central Railroad Museum has been the caretaker of a Mohawk engine for many years, and it is planned for the Mohawk to travel to the Fort Wayne area will it return to hauling passenger regularly.

"We have been the stewards of the Mohawk for many years," said Elkhart Mayor Rod Roberson. "Although we have had no shortage of pride and admiration for this historic machine, we lacked the expertise to be able to preserve it in the way it deserves. We are thrilled to be able to announce this partnership and a new life for the Mohawk."