The Energy brand vertical boiler locomotive, acquired in 2021, was found in a lady’s garden after parts searches for the Cockerill locomotive. As it was dug up, it was found that this locomotive had nuances in its design, making it special. Further research led to a photo of a similar locomotive with all the features of this machine, but a more generous model equivalent to Type IV Cockerill.

Among the 8 Belgian manufacturers that manufactured vertical boiler locomotives, including Cockerill, Ateliers de la Biesme, Tilkin Mention, Haine St Pierre, Duray, Couillet, Roland and Énergie, it is indicated that Énergie produced 4 copies numbered 281 to 284, with characteristics similar to a Cockerill of type III, which would have been put in stock in 1912, according to the archival data transmitted by P. Tassignon.

Today, this special locomotive is kept at the Bois du Cazier in Marcinelle in order to preserve it. Although it is not visible to the public on a daily basis, it can be observed during heritage days, as was the case in 2022.

 Ladriere Nathan