Re: Queen of the narrow gauge

Hi,

I agree.

In terms of beauty and gracefulness and narrow gauge, first and second would be Eureka and the NZ "J" Class. The Tweetsie 10-wheelers were very graceful - at least honorable mention. I think the T12 class would be a runner up - its much like the well known SG Sierra 4-6-0 #3 (AKA C&FW #3).

Ignoring the narrow gauge qualification, it'd be close between three - SP GS4 (like 4449), PRR T1 (4-4-4-4 with a snout that is simiilar to the sharknose diesel), and the PRR Q2 4-4-6-4 (developed too late in steam but may have been the next generation steamer.

As for timeliness, the GG1 looks as futuristic now as when "Rivets" 4800 was built in the early 1930's (1932?). I think the same car body outlines with diesel internals and maybe C-C diesel trucks and look as good now.

All the suggestions are great for personal favorites. A K36 is not Queen quality as is Eureka. Elegance, beauty, graceful, classy. To me the K series mikes were awesome brute haulers.

Just my opinion though.

Doug vV