Steam at São João del Rei in 2001

I was first made aware of the collection of 2ft 6in gauge Baldwins at São João del Rei when I read the book 'World of South American Steam' 20 years ago. These locomotives are variously 4-4-0, 4-6-0 and 2-8-0 delivered between 1889 and 1919. Cliff Schoff has sent me some pictures taken by him during his visit in November 2001. Although now 'just ' a preserved railway it still maintains a lot of its traditional atmosphere. Cliff's main report is on a separate page, there is also his report of an October 1999 visit.

Perhaps the most famous feature of the railway is its roundhouse:

This is the interior with its immaculare Baldwins.:

:My favourite would have to be 4-4-0, 22.

2-8-0 68 was in steam as spare loco - shades of Cuba here.:

:The freight wagons are stored in a less ideal environment.

This is railcar 11.

:This is the impressive train shed with 4-6-0 on a train - I cannot believe it was ever justified ....

:41 roars out through the suburbs with its superbly turned out wooden bodied stock.

:41 out on the line in pleasant countryside

:41 on the turntable at Tiradentes

Period piece taxis at Tiradentes...

:41 ready to leave Tiradentes - again note the delightful station behind.