Southern Railway #401 Freight Excursion

Southern Railway #401 at the Monticello Railway Museum

The Baldwin Locomotive works sold locomotives to Southern states prior to the Civil War. Consequently, when war broke out, the Union military ordered “war trains” to help with movement of troops and equipment. This is why you will see recreations and replicas of these engines in countless movies about the Civil War in America.

Quick facts about Southern Railways #401

Rail Line: originally built for the Alabama Asphalt & Limestone Company
• Builder: Baldwin Locomotive Works – 1907
• Locomotive: Baldwin 401 H-4 Class consolidation
• Wheel arrangement: 2-8-0
• Tractive effort: 36,827 lbf
• Purpose: mixed short line freight and switcher duty

If you’ve ever taken a ride behind the 401 or a train like this let us know in the comments below! Would love to hear your experience on this classic piece of history!