The following D&R #9 update is from Jason R.:

“June 8, 2024; Fletcher was pumped this last weekend getting back to work on the #9 here in 2024.  We had a planning session in May where we set our goals and benchmarks for the year and knocked out some coordination for future work.

Fletch and I met with Frank F. Saturday morning and headed to the museum with hopes of cleaning the backhead in preparation for painting later this summer. BUT, mother nature had its say and we had to nix that plan with the rain that was coming down most of the day. So, we were forced to work inside, and decided to put some work in on the pilot. Many thanks to Ed R. for taking time from his work in the Engine House to help us out. Ed came up to Storage Shed #1 and did the forklift work to help us get the #9’s pilot down from the upper most racks. Once we had the pilot on the ground, we spent most of the day collecting more precise measurements on the timbers that precariously held the pilot together. Frank found his inner Star Trek and created a 3D image of the current pilot to give us a reference in the future. A special thanks for Frank’s Pup “Roger” for keeping us on track with the pilot. 

Once we had our measurements and images, we moved to Storage Shed #2 to inspect the white oak timbers that will make up the rebuilt pilot. Fletch checked moisture levels of the timbers using a moisture meter and found them to be at good levels. Another big thank you to Jerry M. for all his advice and guidance when we talked in May. Jerry M. provided us a lot of insight to help us start moving the pilot re-build forward.  

And with that, we continue to move the ball forward on the D&R #9.  We currently have two volunteer sessions planned on Friday 7/5 and Sunday 7/7.  Fletch and his crew would love for you to join us.”           

All photos provided by Jason R.