With steam locomotives operating in areas where no steam locomotive had operated in many years, the logistical problem of water became important. At first, the local fire department was called out to provide a refill to the thirsty beasts because water tanks had been removed as they were not required with diesel locomotives. This worked okay at first, but they were not always available, and if an emergency came up, the steam train came in second place. Next an old tank car was used. This was done in the VERY early years of operation of the steam program, mid 1960's and probably only behind the 4501. It became apparent that a more permanent solution was required. With railroads still having old steam locomotive tenders around for MofW service hauling fuel and water, an old tender was cut down and the first of the canteens was born.

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