Anyone ever seen or heard of this loco?

[SteamGene]

GG,
Not "bad." just deprived for the most part.  You are lucky to have experienced the steam that you have, but most teens haven't had that experience.  I want to take my grandkids to see steam, starting them off in Strasburg, of course.  I might have to tie Hannah up when she sees the first Amish buggy, though she has seen a few in the Harrisonburg, Virginia area.
The problem is their parents have never experienced steam so they don't see the big deal.
Gene

[UP5511]

I am a UP fan but i have only heard of the 5511 until now.

[Guilford Guy]

oops forgot about Strasburg, and 2 Scottish, and an Austrian Standard Gauge steamer...
so uh 3+5 is 8 so 8 standard gauge

[UP5511]

Don't forget about the locos on the durago and silverton.

[Hoople]

The youngsters, who have never stood next to one ready to depart, smelling of coal smoke, valve oil, and steam, listening to the creaks and groans, and feeling the ground begin to rumble as the rods begin to move, are the ones who really experience beauty.   

Gene, I am 7-8 months older than Kobi/UP5511/HOplasser or whatever he is called, and I have seen what you describe. Standing next to 4449 as it starts is quite something. Even better when two steamers are double heading. I've even gotten the pleasure of blowing 4449's whistle.

Mark

[Paul M.]

Don't forget about the locos on the durago and silverton.

Those are cool.

[SteamGene]

Mark,
My point is that you and GG are exceptions.  As mentioned, even my kids have never seen a standard gauge steam engine in operation.  The closest they have come would be the steamers at Bush Gardens - Old Country and they just don't give the effect. 
You, GG, and a few others are lucky. I've watched kids at Starsburg and it's like suddenly T. Rex has come alive in front of them. 
Gene

[kevin2083]

I've been to the TVRM in Chattanooga a few times, to North Freedom Wisconsin, and some corn maze in CA, all with operational steam locos. The effect was incredible.