Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How is the Flying Yankee Association different from previous restoration efforts?
A: The FYA seeks to separate itself by pursuing a transfer of ownership of the train. The previous business model relied solely upon the use of contractors due to ownership by the State of New Hampshire. With FYA owning the train, a mix of contractors and volunteers can be used, significantly reducing the capital required to restore the train.
Q: Will volunteers be able to assist in the restoration of the Flying Yankee?
A: Yes! Volunteers will be a critical part of the restoration, and we invite those who have interest to come forward if they desire.
Q: Why did restoration of the Flying Yankee cease?
A: The restoration ceased for many reasons, ultimately leading back to the Flying Yankee Restoration Group’s inability to raise funds to meet their goals for the trainset.
Q: Who owns the Flying Yankee?
A: The State of New Hampshire currently owns the Flying Yankee. The FYA is seeking a new ownership agreement.
Q: Where is the Flying Yankee today?
A: The train is located on the property of the Plymouth & Lincoln Railroad in Lincoln, New Hampshire. Do not visit the train without proper permission from the railroad.
Q: What state is the Flying Yankee in today?
A: The train is in a partially restored state. In terms of some major items: The structure of the train has been completely rebuilt. The A-car is partially restored, the B-car is nearly complete, and the C-car is stripped to the frame. It is ready for the interior to be reinstalled. The trucks and traction motors have been rebuilt, the original Winton engine has been almost entirely rebuilt, and a new brake system is on hand, ready to be installed.
Q: Will the Flying Yankee be restored to operational status?
A: The Flying Yankee Association seeks to restore the trainset to limited operation after reuniting the whole train in one location under shelter along the Conway Scenic Railroad.
Q: Will the Flying Yankee run on Amtrak when restoration is complete?
A: While many of the Yankee’s systems and structure have been rebuilt to Amtrak certifications under Amtrak supervision during previous restoration efforts, the FYA does not intend to operate the train outside of the Conway Scenic Railroad in the State of New Hampshire.
Q: Will the Flying Yankee use its original Winton 201A engine or a modern powerplant?
A: This decision has not been made yet. Our focus currently is to protect previous and future restoration work and reunite the train inside a building in the Mt. Washington Valley.
Q: Did the Flying Yankee Restoration Group (FYRG) sell off Winton engine parts from the Yankee?
A: The FYRG auctioned off two worn-out, mechanically unusable pistons as part of a fundraising event. Prior to this, new pistons were fabricated using the old ones as patterns.