Steam locomotive 630 never pulled an excursion into New Orleans, however, she did power some trains that came down near New Orleans for various events such as being filmed for a movie and possibly others. I need to check with others more knowledgable than myself to verify this.

The Southern sold the 630 and her sister engine 722 to the ET&WNC railroad as it was diversting itself of steam in the 1950's. When the excursion bug bit and the Southern was searching for working steam to supplement the 4501 on fan trips, it struck a deal with the ET&WNC where the Southern would send some Alco diesels in trade for the old steam duo.

I never got the chance to ride behind (or even see) the 630, but the photos I poured over in books, magazines and later on the internet of her fueled my imagination. That all may change soon, as she has just emerged from Soule Shops at TVRM from a full restoration which is supposed to include a return to excursion service on Southern successor Norfolk Southern. She will for a while at least be paired up with 4501's tender until her tender can be completed and 4501 can be restored.

Back to Main Page