Southern Railways Rare Double Header
Southern Railways #4501 “Mikado type” 2-8-2 steam locomotive was 1st in her class!
Literally, she was the 1st of 185 Mikado 2-8-2 steam freight locomotives ordered by Southern Railways from the Baldwin Locomotive works back in 1911. Mainly used as a freight hauler, #4501 saw many years of reliable service.
Her most recent restoration was completed in 2014, including upgrades to her feedwater heater and a automatic stoker.
Some quick facts about Southern #4501:
- Builder: Baldwin Locomotive Works
- Build Date: 1911
- Driver diameters: 63 inches
- Locomotive weight: 272,900 lbs
- Class type: Mikado 2-8-2
Currently owned and operated by the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum, the Southern #630 is a ex-Southern Railway Steam locomotive that underwent a thorough 10 year restoration at the Tennessee Valley Railroad’s Soule Shops. The restoration was so involved that it even included the frame work and complete running gear. She was able to return to service in 2011.
Some quick facts about Southern #630
- Builder: American Locomotive Company
- Build date: 1904
- configuration: 2-8-0
- Locomotive weight: 214,000 lbs
- Fuel: coal
- Class: Consolidation type Ks-1
Let us know if you have ever taken an excursion behind this classic steam engines! We would love to hear about your experience!
