The City of Port Angeles is pleased to announce a project to restore the much-loved Rayonier Logging Locomotive #4 on display along Lauridsen Boulevard. This project is a collaboration between the City of Port Angeles, the North Olympic Peninsula Railroaders (a local railroad history organization), and others in the community, such as the Rotary Nor ’Wester’s.
The project will be accomplished in four phases. The first phase includes the removal of hazardous asbestos insulation from around the boiler, making the site safe for future work. The City has allocated funds for this phase as part of the 2022 Capital Facilities Plan process. Second, the locomotive will be cleaned, repaired, and painted; a shelter will be constructed to protect it from the elements. Third, a log car and logs will be acquired to expand the display of logging heritage. Finally, the site will be transformed into a fun and functional park, including displays related to the Peninsula’s logging heritage.
The North Olympic Peninsula Railroaders, with assistance from volunteer Rayonier employees, will raise funds for the second and third phases. Design for the fourth phase is not yet complete; the City is actively seeking local organizations to partner with for the final phase.
Rayonier #4 is a rare Willamette geared locomotive, built by Willamette Iron and Steel in Portland, Oregon, in 1925. She is one of only six remaining Willamette locomotives, and railroad enthusiasts come from all over North America to visit and photograph her. Rayonier operated the locomotive in Western Clallam County for many years before restoring it and donating it to the City in 1960.
“I’ve loved ‘#4’ since I was old enough to know what trains are,” said volunteer and Rayonier Historian Scott Golding. “The timber industry has always been a big part of the Port Angeles economy, and I’m glad to help restore her so she can again be a beautiful tribute to logging history!”
The fundraising goal for this project is $100,000 and will be raised from community contributions. For more information or to donate, please visit www.RestoreThe4.org.
