1. Home
 ›
2. Fallen Flags
 ›
3. Southern Pacific
 ›
4. C.P. Huntington

4-2-4T "C.P. Huntington": SP's First Locomotive

Published: February 18, 2025

By: Adam Burns

The history of the 4-2-4T "C.P. Huntington" is a fascinating tale that weaves together the story of American railroads, innovation in locomotive design, and the transformation of transportation in the United States during the 19th century.

Monumental in its influence and unique in its design, the engine represents a significant chapter in the development of railway technology and the history of railroads in America.

It was built for the Central Pacific Railroad during its early years of building the western leg of the First Transcontinental Railroad.  It later became Southern Pacific's first engine.  The locomotive was ultimately preserved and today is on static display at the California State Railroad Museum in Sacramento, California.

Origins and Design

The story begins in the mid-19th century when the United States was in the throes of rapid expansion westward. Railroads were crucial to this growth, providing the infrastructure necessary to connect distant territories and facilitate commerce and communication. It was during this period of expansion that the idea for the C.P. Huntington type locomotive was conceived.

The "C.P. Huntington" was designed by the prolific and innovative locomotive builder Danforth, Cooke & Company, located in Paterson, New Jersey.  This manufacturer later became the Cooke Locomotive and Machine Works, which became part of the American Locomotive Company in 1901.

In 1863, CP acquired "C. P. Huntington" new; its third rostered engine at that time - as well as the "T. D. Judah" (#4). These engines followed the acquisition of the "Governor Stanford" (#1, a product of the Norris Locomotive Works) and "Pacific" (#2, produced by Mason Machine Works).

The locomotive was named in tribute to Collis P. Huntington, who served as the third president of the Southern Pacific Company, parent of the Southern Pacific Railroad. Commencing service on April 15, 1864, the "C. P. Huntington" was instrumental in constructing the western segment of the First Transcontinental Railroad in North America.

The 4-2-4T configuration is notable for its wheel arrangement, which is described using the Whyte notation—a system that classifies steam locomotives by their wheel arrangement. In this configuration, "4-2-4" refers to four leading wheels at the front, two powered driving wheels, and four trailing wheels. The "T" denotes that the locomotive is a tank engine, meaning it carries its own supply of water in tanks attached to the frame rather than in a separate tender.

Deployment and Service

The introduction of the locomotive was a reflection of the practical demands of the early railroads. Its compact size and the tank engine design made it particularly suited for working in terrain where tender turns and turntables were rare. As a pioneer locomotive, it played a critical role in opening up new rail lines.

In its prime, the "C.P. Huntington" was utilized extensively in passenger service, transport of supplies, and eventually as a switcher.  On February 5, 1871, the SP acquired the engine where it was given #1. It was subsequently employed in light service in Northern California.

The locomotive underwent its first major rebuild in 1873, which included the installation of new valves, followed by a second overhaul in 1888 that involved the fitting of a new boiler, manufactured at the former CP Sacramento Shops. That same year, the engine made its public debut on display in Sacramento.

Legacy and Preservation

In the SP's renumbering of 1891, the engine received number 1001. Initially relegated to storage, the locomotive underwent modifications in 1901 to serve as a lineside weed burner. However, this application proved ineffective, leading to its withdrawal from active service.

In 1910, "C. P. Huntington" was once more rebuilt and afterward stationed at SP's machine shops, where it remained for several years. It faced the prospect of being scrapped in 1914 but was preserved by management for display at the Panama–Pacific International Exposition in 1915 following a cosmetic restoration.

On May 3, 1939, the engine was a prominent feature in the inauguration ceremonies of the Los Angeles Union Station. Under its own steam, the locomotive was showcased to enthusiastic crowds as part of a procession to the newly constructed passenger terminal.

Other engines placed on display for this event included Virginia & Truckee 4-4- #22 ("Inyo") and Southern Pacific 4-8-8-2 "Cab Forward" #4120 (AC-5). This historic event was documented on film by Disney animator and dedicated train aficionado Ward Kimball, capturing possibly the only extant footage of the engine in operation.

In 1964, SP generously donated the engine to the State of California. It was initially exhibited at the former state fairgrounds on Stockton Boulevard in Sacramento. Following a refurbishment at Southern Pacific's Sacramento Shops in 1970. In 1981, it found a permanent home in the newly established California State Railroad Museum, where it is currently exhibited in a static display.

The C.P. Huntington stands as a celebrated artifact and a beloved piece of American history. Preserved in excellent condition, it serves as an educational tool and a nostalgic reminder of the pioneer spirit that drove the expansion of the railroads.

Data Sheet

Cultural Impact

Over the decades, the C.P. Huntington has become more than just a piece of railway technology; it has emerged as a symbol of the golden age of railroading in America. Its iconic design and association with the Central Pacific and Southern Pacific Railroads recall a time of great innovation and ambition in American history.

Legacy

The history of the "C.P. Huntington" is a microcosm of the broader development of railroads in America. From its inception to its operational years and eventual preservation, it has embodied the technological strides and adventurous spirit of its era.