N & W J Class #611 Blue Ridge Special

Norfolk & Western’s J Class #611 Excursion

Norfolk & Western’s J Class #611 is a sleek, streamlined passenger locomotive that is on par with her cousin, SP4449.

Seen here hauling the Virginian and Blue Ridge Special excursions, the J 611 is accompanied by the Norfolk Southern ES44AC #8099 and the Southern Railway F unit FP7 #6133.

A powerful locomotive, the J 611 boiler is rated at 300 psi. and could pull 15 cars at 110 miles per hour!

With a weight of 494,000 lbs., her 27×32 inch cylinders turn her 70 inch driver wheels.

N & W J Class #611 was originally built for $251,000 in 1950 by N & W employees.

Some quick facts about Norfolk and Western’s J-Class #611

• Manufacturer: Norfolk and Western Roanoke Shops
• build date: 1950
• Wheel alignment: 4-8-4
• Drivers: 70 inches
• Locomotive and tender weight combined: 872,600 lbs
• Maximum speed: 110 MPH

Let us know if you have ever seen this magnificent machine rolling down the tracks. We would love to hear your comments!