How is it I am so privileged to see this magnificent machine? The Norfolk & Western J class 4-8-4 No. 611 some will say is the finest passenger steam locomotive of all time. You are looking at a locomotive that possesses 80,0000 lbs of tractive effort, a number that exceeds thousands of freight locomotives. Yet these 70" drivers have made 100MPH for many, many a mile back in the day of N&W passenger service.
Here on the Strasburg short line, timetable speed I have been told is a very modest 20MPH but by employing some photographic slight of hand, we have a hint of those 100MPH days of yore. Thank you No. 611.
