The classifications given by railroads to their steam locomotive fleets were as varied as the machines themselves with several different designations within a particular class! Akron, Canton and Youngstown steam locomotives were likewise distinguished by a wide range of classes from C to R. In any event, the information here is most certainly not a complete, all-time listing of the AC&Y's steam fleet and also is merely meant to list the general types of steam locomotives operated by the railroad.
The Akron, Canton and Youngstown Railroad, Ohio’s Road of Service, operated between 1907 and 1982 and was created through the merger of the Akron, Canton & Youngstown Railway and Youngstown Railroad before being acquired by the Norfolk & Western Railway. The AC&Y only operated a small fleet of steam locomotives, rostering types no larger than 2-8-2 Mikados. Because of this, unfortunately today no Akron, Canton & Youngstown steam locomotives are known to survive, preserved.
Class C
The AC&Y's Class C included its roster of 0-6-0 switchers.
Class E
The AC&Y's Class E included its roster of 2-6-0 Moguls.
Class L
The AC&Y's Class L included its roster of 0-8-0 switchers.
Class M, Class O
The AC&Y's Class M and Class O included its roster of 2-8-0 Consolidations.
Class P
The AC&Y's Class P included its roster of 4-6-0 Ten-Wheelers.
Class R
The AC&Y's Class R included its largest fleet of steam locomotives, 2-8-2 Mikados.
Lastly, for more information on steam locomotives like those operated by the Akron, Canton and Youngstown Railroad consider Perfecting the American Steam Locomotive by author J. Parker Lamb. As the name implies the book details the earliest history of steam engine technology, even before it was used in railroad applications. His book later explores the development of steam locomotive technology in the United States from the 19th through the 20th centuries, covering not only the most popular steam locomotive designs but also the most successful manufactures to build them. The book has received excellent reviews and is a great resource on steam locomotives and a fine reference tool; you should find it very useful.
Also, consider the book American Steam Locomotives from author Brian Solomon. While this publication does not include quite as much technical data as Lamb's book, Perfecting the American Steam Locomotive, it is still a very good resource with lots of information and best of all, is loaded with photographs! If you're interested in perhaps purchasing either (or both) of these books please visit the links below which will take you to ordering information through Amazon.com, the trusted online shopping network.
