Preserved Steam in Argentina

Geoff Dimmick sent me these notes and a few pictures in June 2004. 

I have just returned from 2 months in Bariloche in Argentina. I am not what you would call a steam train buff, but while there Dave Winfield (who is a neighbour here) suggested that I visit the old Bariloche train station. They have an operational...in fact lovingly maintained, steam loco...made in 1912 by the North British Loco Works, Queens Park, Glasgow, # 19778, two beautifully restored wooden carriages from the same era, and three unrestored carriages which are still in restorable condition. They run tourist trips (the Patagonia express) with the loco and the two carriages during the tourist season...unfortunately I discovered it too late to take a trip.

If anybody is going to Bariloche you have to go to the station (on the east side of town) to find out the schedule....none of the tourist agencies in town know anything about it!!!!