Baldwin's classification

The pictured locomotive is identified by Baldwin as class12-26¼-E. The "K-27" style designations are Rio Grande classifications used internally by it and its subsidiaries. I wonder whether the locomotive was delivered painted as-pictured or if Baldwin simply painted it in visible colors for the photograph then repainted it for delivery--which was not uncommon practice. I surmise the latter; the bright jacketing wasn't unheard of but the bright-painted frame would be really unusual.

As a trivia point, 3 foot gauge 2-8-2 tender locomotives existed by the mid 1890's.



Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 04/01/2016 10:49AM by James.