THE WAIT IS OVER!
The whistle is about to echo across Wisconsin once again.
The legendary Soo Line No. 1003 will return to steam on Saturday, September 26, 2026, for a special public run celebrating America’s 250th Birthday!
This isn’t just another train run—it’s a celebration of the locomotive that helped build America. As our nation marks 250 years of independence, you’ll have the opportunity to witness one of the few operating mainline steam locomotives in North America as it once again roars through the Wisconsin countryside. The event is free to attend from public viewing locations along the route, and thousands are expected to experience this unforgettable piece of living history.
As The United States of America celebrates 250 years of independence, we honor the role railroads played to helped build our nation. From connecting communities to fueling industry and expanding opportunity, railroads became the backbone of a growing country.
Today, Soo Line 1003 stands as a living reminder of America’s railroad legacy. Through preservation, we ensure future generations can experience the power, innovation, and spirit that helped shape our country, for the next 250 Years.
From everyone at the Steam Locomotive Heritage Association, thank you for supporting our mission to keep history alive.
Happy 4th of July—and Happy 250th Birthday, America!
Photo by Connor Siemers
Sky added by AI
Burt Mall
In October of 2025, the SLHA family has lost one of its founding members, Burt Mall. Burt, along with Karen and Gary Ostrand were the founding members of SLHA and brought the Soo line 1003 to southeastern Wisconsin. Burt thought history should be preserved and shared with younger generations.
Burt grew up in LaGrange Park, Illinois along the CB&Q mainline. He had a first-hand seat to see the transition from steam to diesel. He started photographing trains in the early 1950’s in his hometown. CB&Q steam would become his favorite, especially the CB&Q 4-8-4’s. Free time was spent traveling the Midwest photographing the last of steam. His extensive photography would become a book, “Steam’s Last Season” published in 2014.
Burt worked during the summers for the CB&Q which gave him enough money to attend Southern Illinois University where he obtained a BA degree. Burt chose a career in computers and information systems. He retired from Intermatic, Inc after eighteen years as Vice President of Information Technology in 2001. He served on the board of the Village of Long Grove for twelve years, as well as President of the Village. Burt belonged to several railway preservation societies and served on the board of Lake States Railway Historical Association starting in 2022.
Burt’s involvement with the Soo Line 1003 began in the 1990’s on the initial rebuild of the locomotive and subsequent operation in the Duluth area. In 1999, Burt helped create 1003 Operations, LLP and the subsequent transfer of ownership to the LLP. In 2010, the 1003 went through a mandatory FRA rebuild. During this time, a nonprofit organization was created, Steam Locomotive Heritage Association (SLHA) with Burt as President. SLHA took over the subsequent operation and maintenance of the Soo line 1003. Under Burt’s leadership, the locomotive continues to operate in southeast Wisconsin for younger generations to learn about steam railroading and a bygone era.
Burt was also a devoted family man. He met his wife Tina while attending Southern Illinois University. They were married in 1967 and they have three wonderful children: Derek, Dane and Danielle and eight grandchildren.
Burt was a leader in railroad preservation. He was a kind and generous man, a mentor and, more importantly, a good friend to many of us. His passing leaves a big hole in our hearts and in the railroad preservation community.
A special thank you to the wonderful sponsors that make Santa Train happen every year! Without your support, Santa Train would not happen.
Bank Five Nine
http://www.bankfivenine.com/
Laufer Trucking Inc.
http://www.laufertrucking.com/
RS Semler Insurance
http://www.rssemler.com/
Schnorenberg’s Floor Covering
http://www.schnorenbergsfloor.com/
Hartford Area Chamber Of Commerce
http://www.hartfordareachamber.org/
Wisconsin Auto Museum
http://www.wisconsinautomuseum.com/
Hartford Downtown Business Improvement District https://business.hartfordareachamber.org/list/member/hartford-business-improvement-district-110
MJ’S Market & Catering
https://www.mjsmarketandcatering.com/
Wisconsin & Southern Railroad:
http://www.watco.com/service/rail/wsor/
And to all the people that came out to support the 1003 and Santa Train, we thank you!