Norfolk Southerns First Heritage Unit

Some folks down in the Trains Magazine forum are talking about 611, and they seem to think it’s in excellent condition. Now I wouldn’t be surprised if NS had filled the boiler tubes and cylinders with cement, but they seem to think that, apart from more stringent inspection standards, she’s pretty much roadworthy.

It is a shame NS sold off all the equipment that went with the program, but at least most of it went to a good home. They would have to hire outside people for maintenance anyhow. I’ve greatly enjoyed riding in the former N&W coaches at the Western Maryland Scenic Railroad in Cumberland.

Looks like something that would be at the head of a passenger special, with the exception that it is an ES44 frieght loco, and not an E6.

Also, isn’t that the Southern’s tuxido paint scheme?