Engine known from 'Polar Express' getting overhaul

The Pere Marquette 1225 also provided sound and served as a model for the 2004 movie by the same name that was based on Chris Van Allsburg's book.

It usually pulls the Steam Railroading Institute's North Pole Express in Michigan. This year, however, diesel engines from the Great Lakes Central Railroad are standing in for the engine.

Organizers hope the Pere Marquette 1225 will be ready for next year's holiday season.