S&D 7F 53809 / 13809 restoration

Excellent news from the 13809 Preservation Society. <BJ>

Locomotive 13809 is one of only two surviving ex–Somerset & Dorset 7F 2-8-0 steam locomotives. Built in 1925, it served faithfully alongside ten sister engines until withdrawal in 1964, when it was sent to Barry scrapyard in South Wales.
In 1975, a small but determined group of enthusiasts rescued 13809 and began the immense task of restoring this powerful locomotive. Their dedication paid off when the engine steamed again in 1980. Over the past 50 years in preservation, it has undergone four full 10-year overhauls, all completed at the Midland Railway – Butterley.
The year 2025 marked a remarkable milestone: 13809 celebrated its 100th birthday and 50 years in preservation—an extraordinary achievement. However, this same year also saw the locomotive’s current boiler certificate expire, resulting in its withdrawal from service.
Now, the goal is clear…
Carry out another full overhaul and return this iconic engine to operation for a further 10 years, so future generations can continue to experience it in steam.
This is a major undertaking. It will require countless hours of work from dedicated volunteers and specialist contractors. The total estimated cost is £500,000, reflecting not only the standard boiler overhaul but also additional essential work. The final boiler costs will only be confirmed once it is fully dismantled.
Once again, the overhaul will be undertaken at the Midland Railway – Butterley, continuing a long tradition in preservation for this locomotive.
After decades of operation, 13809 now also needs new tyres and significant attention to its tender, potentially including a complete new tender top. The tyres alone must be specially manufactured and fitted at a cost of approximately £75,000.
This overhaul is achievable—it has been done before. With your support, it can be done again.
Please consider making a donation, no matter how small, and help secure the future of this historic locomotive for generations to come.
Help 13809 Return to Steam, on GoFundMe https://gofund.me/873d5ffd6