Propst Park, Columbus

In addition to being one of the few surving locomotives built by the Rogers Locomotive and Machine Works (in 1900), Columbus & Greenville Ten-wheeler #178 also holds the distinction of being the last steam engine rebuilt by the Columbus shops (in 1948) and the only surviving Delta Route tea kettle. Saved from the scrapper's torch when retired in 1951 — For many Columbus forces would tell vistors that #178 was being kept for standby service. — by the early 1970's no. 178 was moved to Propst Park along Hwy 182 (South Main Street) in Columbus and put on permanent display with four pieces of Columbus & Greenville rolling stock. Postal-baggage #30 and two coaches represent some of the last Delta Route passenger equipment in existence. Caboose #503 is also included, now named for veteran C&G employee Bob Gray. In its entirety, the train represents a slice of Mississippi shortline history from the first half of the 20th century, before the road's absorption. Indeed, one of the last actions of the original C&G, just before the Illinois Central Gulf takeover, was for President Stovall to deed over to the city the locomotive and equipment. Today a canopy protects the train from rapid deterioration in the elements, and volunteers have worked to keep the equipment painted and lettered.