IT's SWITCHER SATURDAY July 6, 2024 Edition

Norfolk & Western #244 was the first Railking model of a USRA 0-8-0 steam engine made by MTH – product number (30-1111-1). It was delivered in 1997 at MSRP $379.00 with PS1. It doesn’t have speed control and runs fast but – unlike more expensive locomotives – I don’t mind putting runtime on it. The box says it was made in Korea – probably by Samhongsa – the manufacturer of MTH Premier steam locomotive models.

The USRA 0-8-0 steam engine was one of 12 locomotive types designed by the United States Railroad Administration during World War 1 when it controlled American railroads between 1917 and 1920. USRA 0-8-0s became the most widely-used design for heavy steam switchers. 175 were built during the period of USRA control and some 1200 more were constructed afterward. The loco and tender had a combined weight of 364,000 pounds and tractive effort was about 51,000 pounds.

Norfolk & Western #244 was the last reciprocating steam locomotive built in the United States for an American Class 1 railroad and also the last steamer built by the N&W at its shops in Roanoke, Virginia. It was completed in December 1953.

MELGAR

Patrick, it sounds like you are having a great week. Thanks for taking time out to launch another great Switcher Saturday!

Engineer Ernie and his Conductor Pete are beside themselves. They won’t have to buy a beer all  W/E; because everyone will want to hear about this Extra Move that they were called out for. They were assigned Farmingdale Traction Co.  Steeple cab #42. They picked up a modified work caboose that came with 3 RR police officers. They went out to the Team track and met a Fast Mail train that dropped an armored precious metal transport. They were assigned to move this car to a local Gold and Silver dealer; A1 Scranton Gold & Silver Buyers.

Their orders stated that they would stand by while a load of silver pieces were loaded onto the car.

When the transaction was completed; the dispatcher gave orders to move the armored car back to the team track and wait for the next Fast Mail. They were not to uncouple before the Fast Mail train crew was ready to accept the armored car. Once the transfer was completed they dropped of the RR Police and returned to the yard.