OVER NINE YEARS since its intended preservation was first hinted at by knowledgeable Norfolk Southern insiders:
https://www.facebook.com/norfolksouther ... 91iEx6FYMl
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BEFORE RESTORATION: NS has donated NS 1580, the first N&W SD40, to the Roanoke Chapter NRHS, National Railway Historical Society.
Before reaching its final destination, the staff at the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum will restore this iconic locomotive to its original paint scheme. Once it returns to Roanoke, Roanoke Chapter NRHS volunteers will apply the finished letter and number boards.
A Glimpse into NS 1580's Legacy:
In 1966, SD40 NS1580, a GM-made 6-axle diesel-electric locomotive, was received by our predecessor, Norfolk and Western Railway. Built by EMD in LaGrange, Illinois, the engine was assigned to Roanoke as its base, traveling largely between Roanoke and Bluefield, West Virginia, in NW’s Radford Division.
At the time it was put into service, the 1580 represented cutting edge rail technology. When it was rendered obsolete by electronically superior models, the engine was assigned to hump yard service, serving first in Roanoke and, later, in Bellevue, Ohio.
In 2010, NS 1580 was officially retired and relocated to Juniata Locomotive Shop in Altoona, Pennsylvania. There, it has been stored, patiently awaiting its next chapter for over a decade.
Stay tuned for more updates on the restoration journey and to see NS 1580 shine in its renewed glory!
Before reaching its final destination, the staff at the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum will restore this iconic locomotive to its original paint scheme. Once it returns to Roanoke, Roanoke Chapter NRHS volunteers will apply the finished letter and number boards.
A Glimpse into NS 1580's Legacy:
In 1966, SD40 NS1580, a GM-made 6-axle diesel-electric locomotive, was received by our predecessor, Norfolk and Western Railway. Built by EMD in LaGrange, Illinois, the engine was assigned to Roanoke as its base, traveling largely between Roanoke and Bluefield, West Virginia, in NW’s Radford Division.
At the time it was put into service, the 1580 represented cutting edge rail technology. When it was rendered obsolete by electronically superior models, the engine was assigned to hump yard service, serving first in Roanoke and, later, in Bellevue, Ohio.
In 2010, NS 1580 was officially retired and relocated to Juniata Locomotive Shop in Altoona, Pennsylvania. There, it has been stored, patiently awaiting its next chapter for over a decade.
Stay tuned for more updates on the restoration journey and to see NS 1580 shine in its renewed glory!
Photo credit: NS Conductor Alexander Ricketts
Response to the post from the Roanoke Chapter NRHS:
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The Roanoke Chapter NRHS is delighted to receive this significant piece of railroading history. Norfolk Southern's generous donation underscores their commitment to preserving and celebrating the heritage of America's railways. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Norfolk Southern, and all those involved in facilitating this donation. Their efforts ensure that future generations will have the opportunity to appreciate the significance of this locomotive.