Steam engines play vital role

I read the Deseret Morning News report (May 6) pertaining to the replica trains heading to This Is the Place Heritage Park for Thursday's re-enactment ceremony. The locomotives were described as "authentic, realistic reproductions" of the Central Pacific Jupiter and the Union Pacific Engine No. 119. Although they may be similar to the original, any reproduction is just that: a "copy" ... not "authentic" nor "genuine."

I hope that Thursday's re-enactment reminds everyone of the importance of steam engines in the uniting of the transcontinental railroad in expanding our nation's commerce and transportation system. Although today's trains run on diesel and electricity and are equipped with computer technology, we should remember the usefulness of steam engines, which are powered by coal or wood. In the event of a world crisis, the modern trains could be disabled while the old-fashioned steam engines would still be chugging away.

James A. Marples

Provo