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"Hortense," 1920 J. I. Case Traction Engine, 40HP
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"Hortense" was named in honor of the artist and mother of Cal Tinkham, the steam enthusiast and railroad engineer who originally restored this engine.
  • Original Operating Boiler Pressure:  150psi
  • Current Operating Boiler Pressure:  150psi
  • Boiler heating surface area:  136.5 square feet
  • Current California OSHA boiler inspection, valid through 5/2009
  • Additional factory accessories:  Boiler Jacket
  • Original Equipment of note:  Spark arrestor, fire box stoking tools.
  • Custom Equipment of note:  Custom built canopy by Greg Jones, Railroad Dynamo (36v 16a), Southern Pacific 6 chime whistle (on loan from Amtrak Brian Wilson)
The first unit in our steam power collection; we use this traction engine to power the larger kinetic art pieces at our shows, demonstrations, at arts festivals, and beyond. The Case can power kinetic art via the flywheel and belt drive, pulling and/or pushing a moving display, or through auxiliary steam lines providing direct steam pressure. Shown here without its KSW constructed canopy.

case-canopy-day canopy-nightPhoto by John Manyjohns