The De Witt Clinton
The Mohawk and Hudson Railroad, and the De Witt Clinton
This Upper New York Valley railroad was chartered on April 17, 1826. It contracted to the West Point Foundry who had previously built the Best Friend, and the West Point. Locomotives that for their time were successful.
The De Witt Clinton was a four wheeler, less that 12’ long that weighed in at less than three and a half tons. It was not a success as was the Best friend and West Point. When tested with coal the first time it could not reach seven miles an hour. It’s first track test was just over 12 miles in distance. The trip took one hour and forty five minutes. On August 13, 1831 the first run was made. It was to be two trips. The De Witt Clinton was plagued with problems. Water flooded the cylinders, the draft was poorly designed. The forced draft that was rigged caused the coal to burn so hot it melted the fire grate. It was sent back to the West Point foundry. Horse power was used on the second run. The lines second engine was a Stevenson, English built, four wheel, six and a half ton loco, that was more successful.
A funny thing about this second engine from England. The Men who worked this road the M&HRR also call this engine the BULL!----THE JOHN BULL!