Roanoke Bound - April 23, 2016

On the morning of April 23, 2016, we're on NS's former Virginian Railway Line outside of Greta VA to chase the Queen of Steam herself, N&W Class J 4-8-4 #611 on the Roanoker Excursion from Greensboro NC to her hometown, Roanoke VA & return. Soon, we caught the 611 & her 19 car train racing along at 40 mph, heading for her home. The J had only been in her 2nd excursion career for only a year, but was making a killing out of it, with the Sold Out Tar Heel Excursions out of Spencer NC, as well as the Roanoke Excursions being a few notable trips. We chase all of her travels that year, with her famous trip over the Old Fort Loops, as well as over Christiansburg & Allegheny Grade on her home Rails. The former Virginian Railway Line had never seen a passenger train since 1956, with the exception of the Original Steam program excursions of the 1970's - 90's. The consist is similar to the Blue Ridge Special consist, a couple of weeks prior, but with 2 cars missing. The Queen of Steam would arrive in Roanoke, that afternoon, where she'll be turned & serviced. We'll chase more of our old friend throughout the rest of her excursions on NS for that year. Since the Steam Queen hadn't operated any excursions last year, hopefully this year, 611 will have excursions to haul & more fans to come out & witness her.

@evangaines 2025

TRS22

New River Train Productions