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N&W Timetables (August, 1952)

Published: February 22, 2024

By: Adam Burns

Highlighted below is the Norfolk & Western's public timetables from the August, 1952 issue of The Official Guide Of The Railways.  This was the "original" N&W network prior to its major acquisitions.

The Norfolk and Western Railway (N&W), established in 1881, became significant due to coal transportation, particularly from mines in Virginia and West Virginia. It was credited for innovations in steam locomotive design, such as the J class and A class locomotives, dominating steam era technology.

Additionally, it was a pioneer in the development of comprehensive long-haul freight transportation networks.

Between 1959 and 1964 the highly profitable N&W acquired several notable railroads including the Virginian, Nickel Plate Road, and Wabash.  The latter two systems provide the company with a significant presence throughout the Midwest reaching Buffalo, Cleveland, Chicago, St. Louis, and other points.

The consolidation trend continued, and in 1982, N&W merged with Southern Railway to form Norfolk Southern Corporation. Today, much of N&W’s original network forms part of the Norfolk Southern Railway.

Notably, N&W's Class J Steam Locomotive #611 and Class A #1218 have been preserved for historical significance. Also, the company's heritage lives on at the Virginia Museum of Transportation.

Despite ceasing standalone operations, its legacy continues as a vital component in the development of American railroading and freight transportation industries.

Public Timetables (August, 1952)