Norfolk & Western Class G-1 Locomotive, Number 6

The 2-8-0 Consolidation type was one of the most popular steam locomotives ever used on American railroads. No. 6 featured a tractive effort of 29,376 lbs. and small 50 inch drivers. It could pull 50 wooden cars at slow speeds.

Originally this locomotive was N&W No. 352. In May, 1917 it was sold to the Virginia Carolina Railroad and renumbered No. 6. When N&W acquired the Virginia Carolina in January 1920, its number remained 6.

During its later years of service, No. 6 was superseded by heavier motive power and operated in local freight service on branch lines around Bluefield, West Virginia. In the fall months, it hauled cattle trains over the 5.3 mile Honaker-Blackford Branch in Virginia. It was retired from service and donated to the museum in January, 1955.

The engine and tender together weigh 237,415 lbs. The tender has a coal capacity of 13.8 tons, and a water capacity of 6,000 gallons. It has a boiler pressure of 180 psi and 50 inch driving wheels.