What was the name of the first steam locomotive built in the United States for regular scheduled service, in 1830?

The Best Friend of Charleston was the first steam locomotive built in the United States for regular revenue service, entering operation in 1830.

The South Carolina Canal and Rail Road Company ordered the locomotive from the West Point Foundry in New York. It arrived in Charleston in October 1830 and made its inaugural run on Christmas Day. The engine then carried passengers on a six-mile demonstration route, helping establish steam rail service in the United States.

Its career was brief. On June 17, 1831, the boiler exploded after the safety valve was reportedly restrained, allowing pressure to rise dangerously. The locomotive was destroyed, but usable parts were incorporated into another engine named Phoenix, which continued operating for years.

The Best Friend is often confused with the Stourbridge Lion. The Stourbridge Lion was the first locomotive operated on U.S. rails, but it was built in England. The Best Friend’s more specific distinction is that it was built entirely in the United States and used for revenue service.