Virginian/GE "EL-C" Locomotives (E-33): Specs, Roster, History
Last revised: August 28, 2024
By: Adam Burns
The Virginian’s EL-C rectifiers were the most advance electric locomotives the railroad ever owned. Built in the late 1950s by General Electric
they produced over 3,000 hp and were quite adept at hauling coal out of
the southern West Virginia mountains.
Interestingly, however, they lasted but a mere year under VGN ownership before the railroad was purchased by the Norfolk & Western and all were sold by 1962 when the N&W shutdown the Virginian’s electrification.
Practically new at that point the freight motors caught the eye of the New Haven, which used the locomotives along its southern electrified territory.
After the Penn Central merger in 1968, which swallowed the New Haven (essentially a forced arrangement of the former acquiring the latter), the units roamed all over the Northeast, often running the ex-PRR Northeast Corridor.
The electrics have the rare distinction of being owned by five different railroads during a career that spanned less than 30 years.
With the formation of Conrail in the mid-1970s the electrics saw use for just a few more years before being retired in the early 1980s (Amtrak's ownership of the NEC made freight service on the corridor a complicated arrangement).
Photos
Virginian Railway EL-C #138 and EL-2B's sit on display during the National Railway Historical Society's convention in Roanoke, Virginia during 1957. John Stith photo.Background
The Virginian Railway electrification project was one of the most unique operational practices in eastern Appalachian railroading until it was shutdown in 1962.
In terms of the railroad industry’s history the Virginian Railway was a very late entry, as its original main line was not completed until 1909 connecting Deepwater, West Virginia in the heart of Appalachian coal country with Norfolk, Virginia and the tidewater ports.
The railroad was the dream of Henry Rogers and William Page, and while they were harassed and hassled by the larger railroads that did not want more competition, particularly for the rich coal traffic the region provided, they completed their railroad nonetheless.
While never anywhere near as large as nearby competitor Norfolk & Western the Virginian proved its worth through a superbly engineered main line and non-stop belt line of coal.
Conrail E33s #4607 and #4606 lead a northbound freight along the Northeast Corridor at Elizabeth, New Jersey on June 18, 1978. These electrics saw five different owners; the Virginian, Norfolk & Western, New Haven, Penn Central, and Conrail. Doug Kroll photo.Modern Electrics
By the 1950s the Virginian's current class of electrics were either worn out or could not keep up with the growing coal tonnage moving from mines in southern West Virginia to the tidewater ports around Norfolk, Virginia.
At the time, the railroad's newest motors were the streamlined Class EL-2B purchased from General Electric in 1948. While powerful at 6,800 horsepower per set, the Virginian owned just four sets of the motors.
So, to complement and update its fleet in 1958 the VGN would take delivery of its final motors; twelve ignitron rectifiers (also from GE) designated class EL-C.
Even more contemporary than the EL-2B design the EL-Cs featured the now-classic diesel road-switcher design (and accompanying cab design) with a C-C wheel arrangement (i.e., six powered axles in total).
The EL-Cs were rated at 3,300 horsepower and delivered 98,500 pounds of tractive effort.
Penn Central E33's #4607 and #4603 in service along the Northeast Corridor on October 12, 1972. Location not listed. Bob Tennert photo. American-Rails.com collection.Later Owners
As a side note, the EL-Cs had a very interesting history. They lasted a mere year under Virginian ownership as the Norfolk & Western purchased the railroad in 1959.
The N&W saw no need to continue operating its former competitor's electrified operations and so shut off the electricity and ripping down the wires in 1961.
Additionally, since the N&W already served the same regions it had no use for the Virginian's double-track main line and pulled up one of the two and used the VGN’s route in conjunction with its own for a double-track, eastbound-westbound configuration.
The EL-Cs thus went on to be purchased by the New Haven
which reclassified them as EF-4s for use in freight service. Overall, it was quite a deal since the electrics were just a few years old at the time.
The New Haven went on to be folded into the Penn Central, where they were again reclassified as E33s.
Of course, the ill-fated Penn Central lasted not even a decade before its monumental collapse and bankruptcy forced the government to create the Consolidated Rail Corporation (Conrail), which began operations in the spring of 1976.
The few that remained in service under Conrail remained classified as E33s until the carrier shutdown electrified operations in the early 1980s, earning the EL-Cs a unique status of being owned and operated by five different Class Is!
Roster
| Model Type/Class | Road Numbers | Date Built | Transmission | Horsepower |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| EL-C (VGN), EF-4 (NYNH&H), E-33 (PC) | 130-141 | 1955-1957 | 11 kV AC | 3,300 |
Preservation
While the Virginian was never a large railroad and lasted a mere 50 years as an independent company it was an extremely well managed and profitable carrier that gains its distinctiveness from operating an almost entirely electrified system.
Most of the VGN’s electric locomotives have since been scrapped (including most of its locomotive fleet in general) but at least two EL-Cs survives:
- #135 which is on display at the Virginia Museum of Transportation in Roanoke adorned in its original Virginian livery.
- #131 currently resides at the
Railroad Museum of New England in Thomaston, Connecticut.
Recent Articles
-
South Dakota 'Beer Tasting' Train Rides
May 23, 26 12:51 PM
While the 1880 Train's regular runs are a treat in any season, the Oktoberfest Express adds an extra layer of fun: German-inspired food, seasonal beer, and live polka set against the sound and spectac… -
Michigan 'Beer Tasting' Train Rides
May 23, 26 12:49 PM
If you’re looking for a pure slice of autumn in West Michigan, the Coopersville & Marne Railway (C&M) has a themed excursion that fits the season perfectly: the Oktoberfest Exp… -
Indiana 'Murder Mystery' Dinner Train Rides
May 23, 26 12:47 PM
This piece explores the allure of murder mystery trains and why they are becoming a must-try experience for enthusiasts and casual travelers alike. -
Maryland 'Ice Cream' Tasting Train Rides
May 23, 26 12:46 PM
Among WMSR's shorter outings, one event punches well above its “simple fun” weight class: the Ice Cream Train. -
Colorado 'Father's Day' Train Rides
May 23, 26 12:43 PM
With its rugged mountains, rich railroading history, and picturesque landscapes, Colorado sets the perfect stage for a memorable Father's Day outing aboard a vintage train. -
California 'Father's Day' Train Rides
May 23, 26 12:41 PM
Celebrate and honor dad by train on a scenic rail experience! Find out which locations in California host these unique trips. -
Kentucky 'Wine Tasting' Train Rides
May 23, 26 12:40 PM
Kentucky, often celebrated for its rolling pastures, thoroughbred horses, and bourbon legacy, has been cultivating another gem in its storied landscapes; enjoying wine by rail. -
Florida 'Wine Tasting' Train Rides
May 23, 26 11:56 AM
Wine by train not only showcases the beauty of Florida's lesser-known regions but also celebrate the growing importance of local wineries and vineyards. -
Southern 2-8-2 4501 Debuts In "Virginia Green"
May 23, 26 11:54 AM
Southern Railway 2-8-2 #4501 debuted in its return to Virginia Green at the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum today, May 23, 2026. -
NS Unveils First America250 Locomotive: 1776, "The Bell"
May 22, 26 11:15 PM
On May 22, 2026 Norfolk Southern unveiled its first in the America250 heritage locomotives series, 1776, "The Bell". -
Reading & Northern Issues Safety Directive Ahead Of 4014 Visit
May 22, 26 12:01 PM
With thousands of tickets sold for its upcoming series of Semiquincentennial Steam Celebration excursions, Reading & Northern Railroad is also anticipating thousands more trackside spectators to bear… -
Ohio 'Murder Mystery' Dinner Train Rides
May 22, 26 11:36 AM
The murder mystery dinner train rides in Ohio provide an immersive experience that combines fine dining, an engaging narrative, and the beauty of Ohio's landscapes. -
Tennessee 'Murder Mystery' Dinner Train Rides
May 22, 26 11:31 AM
Amidst the rolling hills and scenic landscapes of Tennessee, an exhilarating and interactive experience awaits those with a taste for mystery and intrigue. -
Alabama 'Father's Day' Train Rides
May 22, 26 11:29 AM
Alabama, with its rich railway heritage and scenic countryside, is a wonderful way to experience by train. One location even hosts a special trip for Father's Day! -
North Carolina 'Father's Day' Train Rides
May 22, 26 11:26 AM
Celebrating dad on a scenic train in North Carolina can be found at the New Hope Valley Railway which hosts a special event for the day. -
Texas 'Wine Tasting' Train Rides
May 22, 26 11:25 AM
This article invites you on a metaphorical journey through some of these unique wine tasting train experiences in Texas. -
New York 'Wine Tasting' Train Rides
May 22, 26 11:22 AM
This article will delve into the history, offerings, and appeal of wine tasting trains in New York, guiding you through a unique experience that combines the romance of the rails with the sophisticati… -
The Spirit of America: George H.W. Bush’s 1992 Campaign Train
May 22, 26 11:11 AM
In the fading days of summer 1992, President George H. W. Bush embarked on a classic American political tradition: the whistle-stop tour. -
Burlington Northern Timetables (May, 1972)
May 21, 26 11:56 PM
Presented here is the Burlington Northern's condensed freight timetables from the May, 1972 edition of the "Official Guide Of The Railways." -
Whiskey Tasting Train Rides (2026)
May 21, 26 11:12 PM
These rides across the United States offer a sensory journey through lush landscapes and historical corridors, often pairing scenic vistas with curated whiskey tastings. -
Father's Day Train Ride Locations (2026)
May 21, 26 10:54 PM
Celebrate dad by train! Several heritage railroads and museums host trips honoring dads. Learn more about which locations offer such excursions. -
The Chessie Safety Express: Steam-Powered Advocacy for Railroad Safety
May 21, 26 10:44 PM
In the fall of 1980, a gleaming Chesapeake & Ohio (C&O) 4-8-4 steam locomotive named No. 614 thundered across the rails of the Chessie System, pulling a colorful consist of passenger cars filled with… -
Frankfort and Cincinnati Railroad: "The Kentucky Midland Route"
May 21, 26 06:08 PM
The Frankfort & Cincinnati was a small shortline located in north-central Kentucky that was known as "The Whiskey Route" for the many distilleries it served. The F&C shutdown in 1985. -
North Carolina 'Whiskey Tasting' Train Rides
May 21, 26 12:43 PM
One of the GSMR's most distinctive special events is Spirits on the Rail, a bourbon-focused dining experience built around curated drinks and a chef-prepared multi-course meal. -
Connecticut 'Whiskey Tasting' Train Rides
May 21, 26 12:42 PM
While the Naugatuck Railroad runs a variety of trips throughout the year, one event has quickly become a “circle it on the calendar” outing for fans of great food and spirited tastings: the BBQ & Bour… -
Kansas "Dinner" Train Rides From Abilene
May 21, 26 12:37 PM
If you’re looking for a heritage railroad that feels authentically Kansas—equal parts prairie scenery, small-town history, and hands-on railroading—the Abilene & Smoky Valley Railroad delivers. -
Vermont "Dinner" Train Rides At Burlington
May 21, 26 12:34 PM
There is one location in Vermont hosting a dedicated dinner train experience at the Green Mountain Railroad. -
New Jersey "Father's Day" Train Rides
May 21, 26 12:24 PM
There are a few locations in New Jersey celebrating dads with a train ride. Learn more about these unique trips here! -
Massachusetts "Father's Day" Train Rides
May 21, 26 12:16 PM
The Cape Cod Central is the one location in the state hosting an event just for dads, a special brunch train. Learn more here! -
Historic Steam Locomotive Heads To Charleston For America250 Exhibit
May 21, 26 11:58 AM
A rare piece of West Virginia industrial history, an 0-4-0F fireless steam locomotive by H.K. Porter in 1945, is being installed near the West Virginia State Capitol Complex in Charleston as part of a… -
Connecticut 'Dinner' Train Rides At Essex
May 20, 26 11:55 AM
Connecticut's rail heritage can be traced back to the industry's earliest days and a few organizations preserve this rich history by offering train rides. The Essex Steam Train also hosts dinner-theme… -
Arkansas 'Dinner 'Train Rides On The A&M
May 20, 26 11:54 AM
If you want a railroad experience that feels equal parts “working short line” and “time machine,” the Arkansas & Missouri Railroad delivers in a way few modern operations can. -
Illinois 'Dinner' Train Rides At The MRM
May 20, 26 11:52 AM
The Monticello Railway Museum (MRM) is one of those places that quietly does a lot: it preserves a sizable collection, maintains its own operating railroad, and—most importantly for visitors—puts hist… -
California 'Murder Mystery' Dinner Train Rides
May 20, 26 11:51 AM
When it comes to experiencing the allure of crime-solving sprinkled with delicious dining, California's murder mystery dinner train rides have carved a niche for themselves among both locals and touri… -
Michigan 'Wine Tasting' Train Rides
May 20, 26 11:50 AM
In this article, we’ll delve into the world of Michigan’s wine tasting train experiences that cater to both wine connoisseurs and railway aficionados. -
Indiana 'Wine Tasting' Train Rides
May 20, 26 11:48 AM
In this article, we'll delve into the experience of wine tasting trains in Indiana, exploring their routes, services, and the rising popularity of this unique adventure. -
Texas & Pacific Railway Timetables (September, 1937)
May 20, 26 11:10 AM
Featured here is the Texas & Pacific's timetables and system map from the September, 1937 edition of the "Official Guide Of The Railways." -
Norfolk Southern Unveils America250 Locomotive Series
May 20, 26 10:30 AM
Norfolk Southern has rolled out a bold new commemorative series to mark America’s 250th anniversary (the nation’s Semiquincentennial in 2026). -
The Nebraska Zephyr: Burlington's Lincoln Service
May 20, 26 09:49 AM
ntroduced in 1947, the Nebraska Zephyr provided fast, stylish daylight service between Chicago, Illinois, and Lincoln, Nebraska (via Omaha), covering 551 miles (887 km) in under 10 hours at an average… -
Colorado & Southern Timetables (March, 1940)
May 19, 26 11:55 PM
Featured here is the Colorado & Southern's timetables from the March, 1940 edition of the "Official Guide Of The Railways." -
New Jersey "Father's Day" Train Rides
May 19, 26 11:59 AM
There are a few locations in New Jersey celebrating dads with a train ride. Learn more about these unique trips here! -
Illinois 'Murder Mystery' Dinner Train Rides
May 19, 26 11:56 AM
Among Illinois's scenic train rides, one of the most unique and captivating experiences is the murder mystery excursion. -
Kentucky 'Dinner Train' Rides From Bardstown
May 19, 26 11:53 AM
The essence of My Old Kentucky Dinner Train is part restaurant, part scenic excursion, and part living piece of Kentucky rail history. -
Vermont 'Murder Mystery' Dinner Train Rides
May 19, 26 11:50 AM
There are currently murder mystery dinner trains offered in Vermont but until recently the Champlain Valley Dinner Train offered such a trip! -
Ohio - Beer Tasting - Train Rides
May 19, 26 11:49 AM
The Ohio Rail Experience's Quincy Sunset Tasting Train is a new offering that pairs an easygoing evening schedule with a signature scenic highlight: a high, dramatic crossing of the Quincy Bridge over… -
Texas 'Beer Tasting' Train Rides
May 19, 26 11:43 AM
Texas State Railroad's “Pints In The Pines” train is one of the most enjoyable ways to experience the line: a vintage evening departure, craft beer samplings, and a catered dinner at the Rusk depot un… -
South Dakota 'Wine Tasting' Train Rides
May 19, 26 11:40 AM
For wine enthusiasts and adventurers alike, South Dakota introduces a novel way to experience its local viticulture: wine tasting aboard the Black Hills Central Railroad. -
New Mexico 'Wine Tasting' Train Rides
May 19, 26 11:33 AM
For oenophiles and adventure seekers alike, wine tasting train rides in New Mexico provide a unique opportunity to explore the region's vineyards in comfort and style. -
Amtrak's First Airo Trainset Arrives in Seattle
May 19, 26 10:01 AM
Amtrak's next-generation Airo passenger trainset has officially arrived in Seattle, marking a major milestone in the railroad's largest fleet overhaul in decades and the start of a new era for travel… -
Maine "Ice Cream" Tasting Train Rides
May 19, 26 09:49 AM
The Maine Narrow Gauge Railroad & Museum’s Ice Cream Train is a family-friendly Friday-night tradition that turns a short rail excursion into a small event.
