Steam behind bars- I like that one
Clever.
I guess it is better than allowing people easy access to number plates and such...even if they are reproductions.
Here's one better than just caged...
The NKP 779 was the last commercial built domestic locomotive in the United States. She was preserved by the efforts of John H. Keller whom had her stored in the Lima Tank plant (every M-1 Abrams tank passes through there)...until this enclosure was completed. She is shielded from the western & northern bad weather...as well as having a roof. She shares her cage with 1880's built caboose 1091...Keller's personal caboose as a flagman...1880's built business car #5, and a handcar...approximately 10yds from the DT&I's mainline.
My opinion is that 779 should never run again. She is complete (even has the trust plates which normally are removed while in service jawdrop. Plus, 765 does run...759 has run...and 763 will run as well...so we have plenty of operational examples. 765 has exchanged parts with 779 at various points...so while she is complete...some things are broken...and she was retired due to being up for a class 1 overhaul (drivers turned...etc...) She's the perfect engine to sit in her cage forever.