This 1/2 scale model of the Aultman-Taylor steam traction engine was built in 1962 by James and Ray Lancaster from Mt Savage Maryland. The duo had a dedication to teaching and inspiring the next generation of steam enthusiasts as well as building models for the sheer enjoyment of the craft. This model was shown and operated at the Jubilee Celebrations of New Centerville, Pennsylvania. The Aultman-Taylor’s current owner actually ran it at the Jubilee when he was 8 years old. According to him, this was the spark that started his passion for steam engines.
The Lancasters: Master Craftsmen
James and Ray Lancaster were true craftsmen of their time. They built their models by utilizing pieces of equipment salvaged from scrap yards. Not only could they find impressive use from salvaged pieces, they also built their models from memory. They didn’t have instructions or blueprints, or Youtube! This Aultman-Taylor has pieces salvaged from a Milwaukee Corn Binder and a Crosley Car.
The Aultman-Taylor stayed on display at the Jubilee with the Lancasters until it was sold in the 1970’s to Carl Miller. Carl kept the model until his death in the 1990’s. At that time, it was sold to a doctor, who held onto the engine and kept it safely stored away until being sold again to Richard Birch Sr and Jr. The duo completed a paint job in 2004, but otherwise left the engine unmodified.
In 2005, Dave W saw the Aultman-Taylor model on display at the National Pike Steam Show in Brownsville, PA. Recognizing the engine, Dave told Richard if ever the day came where he wanted to sell it, to contact him first. Richard kept that in mind, and in 2021, Dave received a call to see if the interest was still alive.
After spending some time in South Carolina, the Aultman-Taylor model was ready to be brought back home. The purchase and pick up happened in North Carolina on February 4, 2022. Dave was once again reunited with the engine that sparked his love of steam!
Since acquiring the Aultman-Taylor model, Dave has made a few modifications from the original model. Referencing old steam engine books, Some updates were made to complete the aesthetic as well as to help the engine run better. The engine face was changed to be opened with clips and Aultman-Taylor was water-jet-lasered on the front face door. The roof was raised 6 inches for more room and comfortability while running. The value and timing mechanisms were modified to enhance the performance of the engine
The engine engine is “running fair” and is still being taken to steam shows to show off the impressive craftsmanship of the Lancaster Brothers! The Aultman-Taylor model is used as a living mission of the Lancaster to continue to bring enjoyment, learning, and passion to the history of steam engines. The engine can be seen running at different steam shows such as the Chickentown Gas and Steam Show, The National Threshers Association Reunion in Wauseon OH and The Farmers and Threshermens Jubilee in New Centerville PA.
