Roanoke Chapter NRHS Gratefully Accepts Donation of Historic Locomotive, Norfolk Southern 1580
Roanoke, VA – March 25, 2024 – The Roanoke Chapter of the National Railway Historical Society (NRHS) proudly announces the acceptance of the donation of Norfolk Southern 1580, formerly known as N&W 1580, a historic locomotive with a rich legacy in the annals of American railroading.
Built in May of 1966, Norfolk Southern 1580 holds the distinction of being the first GM-made 6-axle diesel-electric locomotive ever received by our predecessor, the Norfolk and Western Railway (N&W).
“We are delighted to receive this significant piece of railroading history,” said Tim Witt, President of the Roanoke Chapter NRHS. “Norfolk Southern’s generous donation underscores their commitment to preserving and celebrating the heritage of America’s railways. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Norfolk Southern, and all those involved in facilitating this donation. Their efforts ensure that future generations will have the opportunity to appreciate the significance of this locomotive.”
Prior to its arrival in Roanoke, the locomotive will undergo a meticulous restoration process at the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum, where it will be restored to its original paint scheme. Once returned to Roanoke, dedicated volunteers from the Roanoke Chapter NRHS will apply the finishing touches, ensuring that Norfolk Southern 1580 shines in its renewed glory.
Photo Caption: Norfolk Southern 1580, soon to be restored to its original glory, symbolizes a significant chapter in American railroading history. Photo credit: NS Conductor Alexander Ricketts
About Roanoke Chapter NRHS
The Roanoke Chapter of the National Railway Historical Society (NRHS) is dedicated to preserving and celebrating the rich history of railroading in the Roanoke region. Through educational programs, restoration projects, and community events, the Roanoke Chapter NRHS aims to foster an appreciation for the heritage of America’s railways.
About Norfolk Southern
Since 1827, Norfolk Southern Corporation (NYSE: NSC) and its predecessor companies have safely moved the goods and materials that drive the U.S. economy. Today, it operates a customer-centric and operations-driven freight transportation network. Committed to furthering sustainability, Norfolk Southern helps its customers avoid approximately 15 million tons of yearly carbon emissions by shipping via rail. Its dedicated team members deliver more than 7 million carloads annually, from agriculture to consumer goods, and Norfolk Southern originates more automotive traffic than any other Class I Railroad. Norfolk Southern also has the most extensive intermodal network in the eastern U.S. It serves a majority of the country’s population and manufacturing base, with connections to every major container port on the Atlantic coast as well as major ports in the Gulf of Mexico and Great Lakes. Learn more by visiting www.NorfolkSouthern.com