J. Craig Thorpe (American, B. 1948) "Connecticut Locomotive" Signed lower right. Original Oil painting on Paper. Provenance: Collection of James A. Helzer (1946-2008), Founder of Unicover Corporation. This painting is the original which appeared on the Fleetwood Legendary Locomotives of the 50 States Connecticut Commemorative Cover postmarked March 16, 1995. During the first half of the 1890s, one of the most popular modes of transportation between New York City and Boston was a six-hour ride aboard the New England Limited. Also known as the "White Train," this lavishly appointed white and gold train of the New York & New England Railroad (NY&NE) was one of the most elegant of its time. Each royal buffet smoker was outfitted with 20 upholstered chairs, two card tables and writing desks, affording passengers a comfortable and relaxing atmosphere in which to make their journey. On the White Train's inaugural run of March 16, 1891, no detail was overlooked. From the white jumper of engineer Gene Potter, to the whitewashed coal in the tender, the preparations for the first trip were meticulous. And they were well-grounded, for the train quickly became popular, not only for its elegance but also for its punctuality. However, the pristine color that made the White Train unique also led to its downfall. Though master car builder F.D. Adams had argued that white passenger cars would be less adversely affected by heat, and that the finish would be more durable if it was properly applied, it in fact soiled more easily than darker colors and required constant care. Thus, on October 20, 1895, the legendary White Train made its final journey. One of the locomotives that pulled this noted train was NY&NE's engine No. 167 - a 4-4-0 type built by the Cooke Locomotive Works in 1890. Image Size: 14 x 12 in. Overall Size: 18 x 15 in. Unframed. (B14988)