The Black River & Western Railroad is a tourist icon in the heart of Hunterdon County, New Jersey. Their mighty 2-8-0 "Consolidation" #60 has been a staple of the railroad's power, however the locomotive is due for a mandatory 1,472 day inspection. For a temporary farewell, the railroad would once again host a photographer's special featuring the steam star hauling freight and passenger service along the Garden State route. Sporting a striking paint scheme to represent her mid-1970s appearance, the American Locomotive Company product would put on a fantastic display of steam and sound as she works across the familiar line in numerous iconic locations. Even with varied weather throughout the day, the crew and staff would make the best of the conditions and host a wonderful event for photographers. Come along as we follow the former Great Western workhorse from morning to nighttime in this film featuring re-enactments of historic scenes in "The Hunterdon Freight Hauler" by Keystone Rail Productions!
History of Black River & Western 60:
Black River & Western 60 was built by the American Locomotive Company's Schenectady Works in August of 1937 for the Great Western Railway in Colorado. Under the ownership of the Great Western, she worked in service hauling Sugar Beat and Molasses trains, similar to that of the famed Great Western 90. During World War II, the Great Western modified 60 with a smokebox extension, permitting the ability to use poor grade coal in accordance with war-time restrictions. In 1963, a relatively new short line, the Black River & Western Railroad, purchased the consolidation for tourist service. In 1965, she pulled the first tourist trains on the line. During her time in revenue and excursion service, 60 has undergone a number of cosmetic changes. Most recently, she appears in a scheme that resembles her 1972 excursion appearance featuring a red numberplate. During the summer of 2021, 60 returned to the high iron once again after a 5 year annual inspection that sidelined her since late 2019.
To learn more and support the Black River & Western's operations, please visit:
www.blackriverrailroad.com/
Special Thanks To:
- The Black River & Western Railroad
- The BR&W Historic Trust
- The Volunteers & Staff of the BR&W
- Dan Drennen
- The Crew of 60
Filmed on Saturday, April 15, 2023
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