MP 4243 in Wichita, Kansas

[annisheyne3828]

This photo of MP 4243 and her crew (perhaps) was taken in the Missouri Pacific yards in Wichita, Kansas. Among the crew are Lee Pates (engineer, I believe) on the left end and my father Charles William “Bill” Jackson (switchman) on the right end; second from left may be Chuck Welch.
Can anyone provide an estimate of the time period? I have my father’s timebooks and am willing to search through them, but it would help greatly if I could narrow the search range to a few years. Do you detect any clues in the photo – livery, window reflector, types of lanterns carried?
I appreciate any help.
– Fr. Dana Jackson, now in London, England

[attachment=0:17hgh176]MP4243.jpg[/attachment:17hgh176]

[peggyrothschild]

Dana
The locomotive doesn’t look too beat up so it’s early in its career. It does have the radio box so I’d guess this is after 1953 or 54. The four digit numbers when away in 1962. Does that help narrow down your search?

[annisheyne3828]

It’s a good start, Charlie. Thank you!

[annisheyne3828]

Amazingly enough, I was clearing out an old photo album this evening and came across the original for this, with the following description on the reverse: “1952, Left to right: L. H. “Lee” Pates, switchman; Harry Webster – fireman; “Tex” Cannon – engineer; C. S. “Chuck” Welsh – switchman; C. W. “Bill” Jackson – switchman”. I’ll see if I can track down a more accurate date.
– Fr. Dana J.

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