generate a new title here, between 50 to 60 characters long
Written on
Reviving the Legacy of Historic Locomotives
Dear Reader,
Welcome to the third installment of our four-part series that delves into the history of vintage locomotives, which once served as the backbone of the railway industry. In this article, we will explore trains from the 18th to the 21st centuries, their fates, and ongoing efforts to restore these magnificent machines.
We appreciate your engagement with these articles and encourage your feedback. Thank you for taking the time to immerse yourself in this journey.
LB&SCR H2 Class 4-4-2 Project
Originally, six 4-4-2 locomotives were constructed, but none of them survived for preservation. Currently, a replica of the fourth Atlantic, 32424 Beachy Head, is being developed, integrating some components from the original engine.
LMS Patriot Class 4-6-0 5551 The Unknown Warrior
The LMS built a single 4-6-0 locomotive known as the LMS Patriot Class, which did not survive the test of time. The current initiative aims to recreate the original engine, named The Unknown Warrior, which was constructed in 1962 but never bore a name during its operational years.
LNER Class B17 4-6-0 61673 Spirit of Sandringham
Out of the 73 LNER Class B17 locomotives built, none have been preserved, though one tender is still in existence. The 61673 project is working on a new locomotive under the B17 Steam Locomotive Trust, which was announced to be constructed at CTL Seal's facility in Sheffield. Unfortunately, the project was halted in November 2020, but reusable components will remain with the Trust.
LNER Class P2 2-8-2 Projects
Initially, six LNER Class P2 locomotives were created, which were later rebuilt into the Thompson A2/2 Class. Currently, two new builds are in progress: one is a recreation of the original locomotive, Cock O’ the North, designed in a streamlined form, while the other, named Prince of Wales, is also being constructed.
LNER Class V4 2-6-2 Highlander
Only two LNER Class V4 locomotives were constructed, both of which were dismantled. Plans for a new build, number 3403, named Highlander, are underway, with construction anticipated to begin in 2022 after the completion of Prince of Wales.
LNWR George the Fifth Class 4-4-0 Project
This initiative aims to construct a full-sized LNWR George the Fifth-Class steam locomotive, which has no surviving examples. The new engine will be built by Heckmondwicke and Keyte Smith Ltd. in Nether Broughton.
NER Class K 0-4-0T and Class O 0-4-4T Projects
In 2022, Beamish Museum announced its plans to create a replica of the NER Class K 0-4-0T locomotive, which had five original models with none remaining. Additionally, the Heritage Railways will develop a new replica of the NER Class O (LNER Class G5) 0-4-4T, which will be utilized on their routes.
Ffestiniog Railway Projects
The Ffestiniog Railway is working on several projects, including a replica of the Double Fairlie 0-4-4-0T named James Spooner II, which is expected to replace the existing Earl of Merioneth. Additionally, Mountaineer III, a recreation of the original locomotive from 1863, is also underway.
Catch Me Who Can Replica
The Trevithick 200 charity is in the process of constructing a replica of the 1808 locomotive, Catch Me Who Can, with progress being made toward making it operational.
LNWR Bloomer Class 2-2-2 Replicas
Among the 74 LNWR Bloomer Class 2-2-2 locomotives originally built, none have survived. A replica completed in 1991 is currently on display, while a new working model is under development.
Corris Railway and Southwold Railway Projects
The Corris Railway is constructing a replica of its original 0-4-2ST locomotive, number 10, which successfully passed its steam test and made its first public appearance in September 2022. Similarly, the Southwold Railway is working on a replica of locomotive number 3, Blyth, aiming to honor its historical significance.
PRR T1 4-4-4-4 Duplex Project
The Pennsylvania Railroad built 52 duplex locomotives, which unfortunately did not survive. The PRR T1 Steam Locomotive Trust is embarking on the construction of a functional replica, numbered 5550, expected to be completed by 2030. Initial components have already been cast, including the Boxpok driver.
Conclusion
This article concludes the third part of our exploration into historic locomotives. We appreciate your time and invite you to share your thoughts. Stay tuned for the fourth and final article in this series, where we will continue to examine the stories of these remarkable engines and their contributions to railway history.
If you enjoyed this piece, please consider showing your support, following my work, and joining me on my writing journey as I contribute to various platforms, including Medium.com. Your engagement encourages me to keep creating. Thank you for your support!