Kayden's Wheel Reports: Sacramento Valley Live Steamers 'Better Beer Co. No.2'
A Brief History
In the introduction of his iconic book ‘Classic British Steam Locomotives’, Peter Herring noted that British and American locomotive practices diverged significantly once both nations mastered their design and construction, rarely reuniting thereafter. This is largely true, except for a few special cases, such as the story of 'The Bug.'
In 1926, the Romney, Hythe & Dymchurch Railway (RH&DR) in Kent, England, commissioned a small 0-4-0 tender-tank locomotive from the German manufacturer Krauss Maffei. This 15 inch gauge miniature railway, the passion project of racing drivers and railway enthusiasts Captain J.E.P. Howey and Count Louis Zborowski, aimed to operate like a full-sized railway. Their locomotives and rolling stock were elegantly designed, featuring roofed carriages with luxury fittings, in contrast to the open-topped coaches with a toy-like appearance common on other miniature railways.
The little German 0-4-0T+T, affectionately nicknamed 'The Bug' due to its diminutive size, was perfect for building the railway and extending the line to its ultimate terminus at Dungeness. Its short wheelbase and relatively high water capacity (thanks to a valve used to switch the water source between the tender and side tanks) made it ideal for the task. However, with the arrival of larger 4-6-2 'Pacific' locomotives, 'The Bug' fell out of use and was sold in 1933, eventually ending up on a small railway in Belfast, Ireland, before being sold for scrap in 1950.
Miraculously, 'The Bug' was saved in 1972 by businessman and railway enthusiast Sir William McAlpine, who had also rescued her original home and various other steam locomotives from near destruction. Restored to operation in 1974, 'The Bug' has since become a regular locomotive on the now-preserved Romney, Hyth & Dymnchurch Railway to the delight of railway enthusiasts and the travelling public.
Yet, the story of 'The Bug' didn't end there. In 1989, Miles Snyder of Live Steam magazine, an American magazine dedicated to the world of miniature steam, visited the RH&DR and was captivated by 'The Bug'. Inspired, he published its schematics in the next issue of the magazine, and soon after, he built his own version named ‘Lyndham’ in honour of his grandchildren. This locomotive became the first of several 'Bug' copies across the United States.
One notable copy, Better Beer Co. No.2, resides at the Sacramento Valley Live Steamers (SVLS) in California. Completed in 1994 by George Gilman of the Golden Gate Live Steamers and sold in 2016 to Andy Berchielli, the events manager of the SVLS, this locomotive is described as delightful to drive. Its enclosed cab and large controls give the sensation of operating a full-sized locomotive despite running on 7.5-inch gauge. Although it only has four drive wheels, its adhesive weight allows it to match the larger American-style locomotives on the railroad. Berchielli has added personal touches, including a beer bottle opener behind the tender for a refreshing drink after a long day. Additionally, the locomotive burns propane as it is more cost effective and burns cleaner than coal. These customisations, along with classic American features such as a large headlamp, showcase how miniature locomotives can be personalised to stand out for the needs and wants of their owners, even if they’re of the same class.
The SVLS hosts public runs on the first weekend of every month, offering a chance to witness the club’s steam locomotives in action. Better Beer Co. No.2 is unfortunately reserved for special events, such as New Years, the Spring and Fall meets, and the Santa Runs, so make sure to catch her at those!
Personal Thoughts
As someone who researches railways around the world, I am constantly fascinated by stories of locomotives visiting and even finding a new home in far-flung places. The Bug’s journey from a construction locomotive cast aside when her work was complete to a preservation star inspiring copies across the ocean is a testament to the enduring appeal of steam locomotives, even at a small scale. Miniature railways, although often seen by most as mere 'toy railways’, can make a significant impact on the world, proving that good things indeed come in small packages.
I hope to one day cross the Pacific to drive Better Beer Co. No.2 and other locomotives at the SVLS. It would be an even greater honour to visit the RH&DR and see the original 'Bug' that started it all.
I would like to thank Austin Unruh and Andy Berchielli of the Sacramento Valley Live Steamers for their support in writing this article. Check out the club’s website and socials in the links below.
https://www.svlsrm.org/index.php
https://www.facebook.com/SVLSRM/
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