Trackless train: Restorers have refurbished a unique steam engine from the early 20th century (video)

In the small American town of Bradley, Maine, restorers have showcased a unique steam engine from the early 20th century, which was used as a kind of all-terrain train. A video of this remarkable machine was posted on the popular ViralHog service on YouTube.

The non-profit Maine Forest and Logging Museum has decided to restore the operational capability of this fascinating steam engine, which previously served as a tractor instead of horses or stone road contributors in hard-to-reach areas. This unusual and original machine has captured attention on social media, where users expressed their interest.

According to the video explanation, such machines weighed up to 20 tons. The restorers add that these "steam locomotives" were the actual predecessors of all currently known types of internal combustion engine transportation.

The footage shows two men operating this "tracked all-terrain vehicle" from the front. At the same time, a third man sitting in the engineer's seat is sounding a characteristic horn.

Despite its bulky appearance, the machine moves well on dirt roads and attracts the attention of tourists. The museum's restorers in Maine conduct such "rides" several times a year to showcase this quite rare and unique exhibit to anyone interested in seeing it.

Online users have reacted positively to this "iron monster." Some noted that the main issue would be the significant fossil fuel consumption required to operate such a machine, while others pointed out that it was the first time they had seen a train "leave the tracks and drive on the road."

It was also reported how the train stopped due to a squirrel invasion right in the middle of its journey. Unable to cope with the challenges, the train conductor decided to send the train back to Reading to eliminate the pests.