WTF? (LS&I)

Well, this is the object. After spending some time cyphering the faint lettering on the side, it is Lake Superior & Ishpeming X2 Steam Car. ??? I've asked around, and was told it could have been used to clean out switches clogged with snow and ice, or to keep the ore from freezing in the Jennys. Still don't know why it's in Ixonia?

Done