Mr. William Durkee, formerly of the J. I. Case Co., pointing out
some features of the Lang & Button engine owned by Mr.
Norris.
The Lang & Button is not a very well known engine and we are
glad to give it all the publicity we can. They were very well built
engines. Some New Yorker should write the history of them.
This engine on the photo is Allis Chalmers No. 154 built in
1903, 10′ x 30′ bore and stroke. Develops 58 hp at 90 rpm
with 1/4 cutoff and 100 psi. and is equipped with Corliss valve
gear. This engine was sold in 1903 to a concern in Lancaster,
Pennsylvania, and installed in a knitting mill in Lititz,
Pennsylvania, and operated there until 1930 when this mill for some
reason was shut down.
There stood the old girl until 1957 when Rough & Tumble
Engineers Historical Ass’n, Kinzers, Pennsylvania, stepped in
and bought it. Two other fellow members of R & T and I
volunteered to dismantle it and move it to the R & T Museum
grounds. In 1958 the board decided to have it set up in the corner
of the Museum Building. When the time came for installing, it was
again left to a few fellow members and me to do the job. Imagine
this engine falling asleep in 1930 without any further attention!
In August 1950, she was brought back to life again and is now all
shined up and in operation during the Annual 3-Day Reunion at Rough
& Tumble Engineers Historical grounds. It is now my pleasure to
care for this engine during reunion days. Steam is furnished by a
portable boiler or a traction engine.
I feel grateful to the Association that they have entrusted me
to this job.
It has been quite an experience for a hobbyist. Many of the
old-timers lean on the railing, ask questions and admire the old
girl. LeRoy B. Ebersol
(We do not know who sent this picture. If there was more
information it has become separated from the picture. Maybe the
sender will let us know and give more information. Elmer)
