Norfolk and Western 611 Restoration to begin Next Month

Ryan · Apr 1, 2014

Just got an email from the Virginia Museum of Transportation folks:

Apr. 1, 2014 - ROANOKE, VIRGINIA - The Virginia Museum of Transportation today announced the Norfolk & Western Class J 611 Steam Passenger Locomotive-known affectionately as the Spirit of Roanoke-is ready to head to Spencer, N.C. for restoration. An "All Aboard" send-off party is scheduled for Saturday, May 24, from 10 am to 5 pm.

"The restoration will take approximately nine months and needs to begin this spring so we can participate in Norfolk Southern's 21st Century Steam Program in 2015," says Fitzpatrick. "As she travels the Norfolk Southern rail system, our 611 will draw the attention and interest of new donors and fans of the Class J 611 from the region and beyond."

I look forward to seeing her under steam next year!

Some good Amtrak mentions in the full article as well:

Amtrak's plans to extend passenger rail service into Roanoke will play a role in the location of the preservation and education center. "Amtrak may need land owned by Norfolk Southern and leased by the Museum at present," he says. "We are looking at ideas for the preservation and education facility's location in conjunction with Amtrak Service, the Class J 611's restoration, and the overall planning of this facility."

http://fireup611.org/?page_id=20

Agent · Apr 1, 2014

So this isn't an April Fools' Day joke?

Acela150 · Apr 1, 2014

No it's real. Although they picked a hell of a day to spread the word.. I'm debating on a drive down..

The Davy Crockett · Apr 1, 2014

I'll confirm its not a joke as well. The title of the email I got from them:

This is not a joke: The Class J 611 rolls to restoration on May 24!

As Steve says, " hell of a day to spread the word."

Agent · Apr 1, 2014

Knew it wasn't, but it had to be said.

Is it weird that "Ode to Joy" is playing in my head right now?

Acela150 · Apr 1, 2014

IF it was a joke I think their'd be some Pi**ed off foamers. And truth be told... I'd be one of them The 611 is special not just to me but all rail fans! The 611 is the very first steam locomotive I ever saw. Keep in mind I was a baby/toddler but it means something.