Whitneyville & Machiasport “Lion”

The locomotive called “Lion” is the oldest known American-built one in New England. It was built by Hinkley & Drury at Boston in 1846, some older sources even say 1843. It went to the Whitneyville & Machiasport Railroad who operated a line of eight miles for hauling lumber. “Lion” had two driving axles, no carrying axles and outside cylinders. It was in service for more than four decades and also hauled passengers, which allegedly could board the train free of charge.

It was retired in 1890 and after only one year in the hands of an individual, it was sold to the city of Portland, Maine in 1898. They gave it to the University of Maine at Machias where it was on display for 80 years. Since 1985, it can be found in the Maine State Museum.