When I was born in Roanoke, in 1950, I would have no way of knowing the significance of that location, it's importance in the building of the nation, and how many years later I would learn "the rest of the story." Norfolk and Western was all about steam! Built in Roanoke over all those years, Norfolk & Western was the last railroad to finally go to diesel. I've learned since them that my G.G. Grampa and all his "get", right down to me, my brother and my sisters, lived in Roanoke. My mothers side of the family all did the same.
There's just something about that time, the look, and the lonesome whistle, you just gotta like! The great new diesel engines are beautiful, powerful and have all the "bells and whistles", but for me.... forgive the smudge of coal dust on my face, there ain't nothing like the old steam locomotives!
...and to each his...or her... own!
Lion L
