Founded in 1997, the Louisiana Steam Train Association (LASTA) believes that history shouldn’t just be viewed behind a glass case—it should be heard, felt, and witnessed. Currently based in Jefferson Parish, our mission is to preserve the golden age of railroading through the restoration and operation of vintage railroad equipment.

Our pride and joy is the Southern Pacific 745, a 1921 Baldwin-built MK-5 class locomotive and one of the last of its kind that was originally built in Algiers, Louisiana. Once a titan of the tracks, 745 continues to educate the public on the engineering marvels that was originally built in our state.

The Louisiana Steam Train Association is a non-profit 501(c)3 organization ran entirely by our passionate volunteers. Our mission is to educate and entertain the public about railroading history from across South Louisiana and maintain its collection of historical railroad equipment.