Tom Thumb (locomotive)

Tom Thumb was the first American-built steam locomotive to operate on a common-carrier railroad. It was designed and constructed by Peter Cooper in 1829 to convince owners of the newly formed Baltimore and Ohio Railroad (B&O) (now CSX) to use steam engines; it was not intended to enter revenue service. It is especially remembered as a participant in a legendary race with a horse-drawn car, which the horse won after Tom Thumb suffered a mechanical failure. (See Relay, Maryland.) However, the demonstration was successful, and the railroad committed to the use of steam locomotion and held trials in the following year for a working engine.[2]^: 11

Quick facts: Tom Thumb, Type and origin, Power type, Build... ▼

Tom Thumb
A 1927 replica of Tom Thumb, the first American-built steam locomotive
Type and origin Power type Steam Builder Peter Cooper Build date 1829
Specifications Configuration: ​  • Whyte 0-4-0VB Length 13 ft 2+3⁄4 in (4.03 m) Height 12 ft 9 in (3.89 m) Fuel type anthracite coal Boiler 27 in × 66 in (690 mm × 1,680 mm) dia × high Cylinder size 5 in × 27 in (127 mm × 686 mm) dia × stroke
Performance figures Power output 1.4 hp (1.0 kW) horsepower[1]
Career Operators Baltimore and Ohio Railroad