Here is an almost identical shot of NW 1206 taken during a fan trip in 1958. Built by the N&W shops in 1936, this articulated class A locomotive had 70" drivers, developed a whopping 300 psi boiler pressure and exerted a massive 125,897 lb tractive force. Roller bearings throughout made this one of the most efficient steam locomotives ever built and could compete with effectively with diesels for awhile. Unfortunately, they too succombed to the scrap pile and were retired between 1958-59. As stated in the previous photo, this may have been one of its last if not THE last runs before retirement. |