Locomotive builder Matthias W. Baldwin

baldwin s old ironsides engine, manufactured in 1832.

baldwin put knowledge of stationary steam engines new use in 1831 when constructed first experimental steam locomotive. based on designs first shown @ rainhill trials in england, baldwin s prototype small demonstration engine displayed @ peale s philadelphia city museum. engine strong enough pull few cars carried 4 passengers each. locomotive unusual time in burned coal, available locally, instead of wood.

the next year baldwin built first commissioned steam locomotive fledgling philadelphia, germantown & norristown railroad. engine, nicknamed old ironsides, traveled @ rate of 1 mile per hour (1.6 km/h) in initial trials made on november 23, 1832, machine later refined , improved peak speed of 28 mph (45 km/h) attained. weighed on 5 tons, 54 in (1,400 mm) diameter rear wheels, 9.5 in (240 mm) cylinders 18 in (460 mm) stroke , 30 in (760 mm) diameter boiler took 20 minutes raise steam. locomotive 2-2-0 (whyte notation) type, meaning had 1 unpowered leading axle , 1 powered driving axle. although contracted $4,000, owing performance shortcomings compromise price of $3,500 between railroad , budding baldwin locomotive works agreed upon , received.

baldwin issued u.s. patent 54 art of managing , supplying fire generating steam in locomotive-engines in 1836. text of patent explained intention of new mode of managing fire enable me, @ each water station, or convenient place have clear coal fire waiting arrival of engine grate or fire-place has been in use, may detached or slid out, , containing clear fire, made occupy place.