By the late 1800s, France’s Decauville Manufacturing Company had established themselves as builders of reliable and simple to operate narrow gauge steam locomotives. Many of their designs were intended for use in agricultural, mining, and light industrial settings. One such loco was a Decauville Type 1, 3-ton 0-4-0T built in 1899, construction #302, for the Dombe Grande Sugar Estates in what was then the Portuguese territory of Angola. The loco was named “Bathala”. In 1930, after three decades of dependable operation, “Bathala” was placed in a museum on the company’s grounds. This act ultimately led to her survival from the civil war and turmoil which impacted that country decades later.

After being “found” again in 2003, and after nearly two years of negotiations, the loco finally made its way to Johannesburg. In what is perhaps a world record for locomotive restoration, the work was completed in only four months! “Bathala” can now be found operating at the Sandstone Steam Railroad in Bloemfontain, Free State, South Africa.

Accucraft Trains is pleased to announce this locomotive in 7/8ths to the 1 foot (1:13.7) scale live steam. Careful measurements were taken to ensure the model closely matches this beautifully preserved loco. Our thanks and appreciation to both David Fletcher and Jason Kovac for their assistance in the development of this model.

Three different color versions are offered: maroon, green, and black. Each version also features an attractive contrasting color lining We expect this locomotive to be popular; please place your reservations early!