NS Elkhorn, WV
The Elkhorn Grade on the Pocahontas Division mainline of the Norfolk and Western was improved in the late 1940s to allow modern steam locomotives to replace the aging AC propulsion electrification installed in the teens. In addition to a new ventilated summit tunnel, improvements were made to reduce curvature. Rock slide fences made from worn rail added in critical locations remain today.
In the last light of a March afternoon, eastbound NS merchandise train 18W from Bellevue, OH to Winston-Salem, NC ascends the Elkhorn Grade wrapped in flying sand and hot exhaust.
NS Elkhorn, WV
The Elkhorn Grade on the Pocahontas Division mainline of the Norfolk and Western was improved in the late 1940s to allow modern steam locomotives to replace the aging AC propulsion electrification installed in the teens. In addition to a new ventilated summit tunnel, improvements were made to reduce curvature. Rock slide fences made from worn rail added in critical locations remain today.
In the last light of a March afternoon, eastbound NS merchandise train 18W from Bellevue, OH to Winston-Salem, NC ascends the Elkhorn Grade wrapped in flying sand and hot exhaust.