Norfolk & Western 1218 Steam Locomotive Becomes Historic Virginia Landmark and
will join National Register of Historic Places

Roanoke, VA – The iconic Norfolk & Western 1218 steam locomotive has officially been
designated as a Virginia Historic Landmark and will be added to the National Register of
Historic Places (NRHP), a testament to its cultural and engineering significance in American
railroad history. This momentous designation marks a major milestone in the preservation of this legendary locomotive and further cements its status as a symbol of Virginia's rich railway
heritage.

The Norfolk & Western (N&W) Class “A” No. 1218 is an articulated coal-burning steam
locomotive completed and delivered for service on June 2, 1943, by the Norfolk & Western
Railway at their East End Shops in Roanoke. The 1218 is the only surviving Class “A”
locomotive built by Norfolk & Western and the only surviving steam engine with the “2-6-6-4” wheel arrangement in the world – it exemplifies the N&W’s philosophy of modern, superpower steam locomotive design, the last great advance of steam locomotive technology in the 20th century. Originally operating until 1959, the locomotive routinely pulled 150 cars loaded with coal and fast freight merchandise trains at an average speed of 70 miles per hour. It was also used to move military troops and equipment during World War II. The N&W Class “A” No. 1218 Locomotive was restored in 1986 and used for passenger excursions between 1987-1991. The engine is currently on exhibit at the Virginia Museum of Transportation in the city of Roanoke, along with the individually listed Norfolk & Western Class J No. 611 Locomotive.

"We are thrilled to see the N&W 1218 recognized for its historical significance," said Mendy
Flynn, Executive Director of the Virginia Museum of Transportation. "This designation
acknowledges the role that the Norfolk & Western Railway played in shaping the economic and industrial landscape of Virginia and the United States. The 1218’s inclusion on the NationalRegister ensures that future generations will continue to learn about and appreciate this extraordinary piece of American history."

"The Norfolk & Western Class A locomotives are often regarded as one of the finest steam
locomotive designs ever built, blending raw power, precision engineering, and unparalleled
efficiency, becoming icons of American railroading history. The Virginia Museum of
Transportation is incredibly thankful and blessed to have two iconic locomotives like the 1218 and 611 in its collection, preserving a vital piece of railroad history and sharing these
magnificent locomotives with the world for future generations to admire and experience." said Zac McGinnis, Railroad Exhibit Historian for the Virginia Museum of Transportation.

The National Register of Historic Places is the official list of the nation’s most important
cultural and historical resources. Being added to this prestigious list means the N&W 1218 will be protected and preserved for years to come, helping to tell the story of steam locomotion and its profound impact on American society. As a Virginia Historic Landmark, the 1218 is now officially recognized as a key part of the state's historical legacy.
This designation will also pave the way for further preservation efforts and public programs
focused on educating visitors about the evolution of railroads, technology, and the significance of steam locomotives in the United States. The N&W 1218’s recognition adds to the growing list of important landmarks in Virginia that celebrate the state's industrial history.

About the Virginia Museum of Transportation

The Virginia Museum of Transportation in Roanoke, Virginia, aims to highlight our nation's
transportation history by providing a unique, educational, and fascinating museum experience that appeals to every member of the family. Through exciting interactive exhibits and artifacts, we take our patrons back in time and bring history to life. Our museum offers both historical and cultural context that allows us to enlighten and educate visitors in-depth about the various concepts that have been pivotal in shaping transportation over time within the Commonwealth and beyond.

So...is this a step towards the potential operational restoration of 1218? As a historical landmark, I'd think restoring it to it's full assembly and making it totally intact would be in the order of things.

OR

It this a "Berlin Wall" barring further repair and restoration to service?

Popcorn is in the lobby at $1.25 per bag, and remember a cold beverage for $2.50 a cup at the snack bar.

Richard-I suspect it's neither. The VMT announcement said up-front there's no plan to restore 1218 (they 'have their hands full with 611') to operation.