Expanding on my previous post, I believe in the spirit of this project it should be steam power only. Batteries were around as early as the 1800s but not in the form i'd be using. Anyways, for the boiler being built, I found a good generator. 

Here's the specs:

Steam power enthusiasts unite! It's exciting to see a project that embraces the charm of the past while harnessing modern ingenuity. That generator sounds like the perfect partner for your boiler. Can't wait to see how this steam-powered adventure unfolds!