The first locomotive built in the United States for actual service on a railroad was the "Best Friend of Charleston." It was built at the West Point Foundry Shops in New York City for the South Carolina Railroad and arrived in Charleston by ship in October of 1830. After several experimental trials in November and December, it made its first excursion trip on January 15, 1831. The engine in this photograph is a reproduction of the original "Best Friend."
Courtesy of the South Caroliniana Library.
