A&Y #950 4-6-0
This 4-6-0 locomotive was built in 1894 (s/n 2424) for a predecessor of the Southern Railway by Alco in Richmond, VA. This Ten Wheeler was retired in 1932.
Construction year 1894 Construction number c/n 2424 Constructed by Richmond Locomotive Works (nee Alco) Southern Class n/a Cylinder size (inches) 19"x26" Steam pressure (pounds per square inch) 200 lbs Driver size (diameter) 68" Weight (in pounds) 142,000 lbs Tractive effort (in pounds) 23,460 lbs
Photo is dated 1922. My image came from the collection of Ruth Minick. In this image, it is difficult to identify the locomotive number. Steve Robinson, grandson of the A&Y fireman standing 2nd from right in this photo, Herman Lee Robinson, has another print in which the engine number is clearly 950. My image obtained from Mac Connery, Durham, NC.
Click on the image to obtain a larger version in a new window. This is a digital detail image by Steve Robinson of the photo above, clearly showing number 950 on the cab (and lettered for the Southern above it).
It is my belief (but not with a lot of supporting evidence) that the A&Y lettering for locomotives did not begin until 1924 when the company went into receivership and had to be formally separated from its parent Southern Railway, including leased locomotives and more distinct accounting for shared properties and services.
The reference on the back of the print suggests that the first passenger train into Mount Airy, NC arrived at 8 p.m. on Saturday the 28th of ?, 1888. I do not know if that information is true or false. Any information regarding the arrival of the first passenger train in Mount Airy would be appreciated!
