Great post, Hudson. Outstanding story and excellent prose.
Quick question, though: In terms of tractive effort, didn't the NKP 765 or 779 and related produce around 64,000 pound feet of tractive effort vs. 61-62K lbs feet for a Niagara?
Not a big difference and not wanting to start a debate as to which is "better". I like 'em both!
I think I've seen (or may have) photos of Niagaras running freight through CLE in the early 1950s. I also thought the Berks would hit 70-80 MPH running high speed freight West of CLE, through Bellevue.....but I could be wrong.