Wolsztyn-based Ol49s

Seven Ol49 are based in Wolsztyn, so the ‘last steam enclave in Europe’ is a good place to see these machines.

Superheater repair in the Ol49-23 (Fablok 2625/1952) at Wolsztyn depot; this machine is still in use. Photo taken on September 8, 2004

This Ol49-60 was photographed in Wolsztyn on April 29, 2002

Ol49-111 (Fablok 4073/1954) with Ol49-7 (Fablok 2609/1952) in the background. Both are still in use. Wolsztyn loco depot, September 8, 2004…

…and Ol49-111 + 25D49-49 solo.

Ol49-111 during the ‘Steam Locomotive Parade’ at the Wolsztyn depot, April 29, 2006.

Again Ol49-111, this time during the 2007 parade...

...in much better weather; both photos taken on April 28, 2007.

Derelict Ol49-81 + 25D49-? (Fablok 3192/1953), photographed on September 8, 2004…

…and Ol49-85 + 25D49-? (Fablok 3183/1954), photographed on the same occasion. Knowing the attitude to steam locomotives in Wolsztyn, these two machines may still have some prospects for future other than scrap.

Ol49-7 ‘Bob Wyatt’ + 25D49-? (Fablok 2609/1951) on Wolsztyn turntable…

…and during the parade…

…which gave a possibility to peek into the driver’s cab. These three pictures were taken on April 30, 2005.

Ol49-99 + 25D49-59 (Fablok 3211/1954) photographed on the same occasion. This machine is erroneously designated Ol49-69 – the real -69 (Fablok 3180/1953) can be seen in Gniezno.

Ol49-7 preparing for the 2006 parade at the Wolsztyn depot...

... in a rainy and cloudy weather...

... which could not stop the fans from watching smoke-box cleaning...

... that really made a great view;

according to some statements, clouds and rain made up a romantic atmosphere. Five above pictures were taken on April 29, 2006.

Wolsztyn, April 28, 2007: Ol49-7 ‘Bob Wyatt’ posing on the turntable...

...and departing slowly. No railway fan’s head in the field of view: unbelievable!