Plus the 0-6-0T's an Van Ness shops to 1957.
For all intents and purposes New Haven steam ended in 1952. There were steam excursions run in '52 and '53, and a New Haven Mikado "starred" in a 1958 Doris Day film "It Happened to Jane", but those were exceptions.
The PA's and FA/B's had the "0" prefix, although the FB2's and the RS3's did not. The EP-5's also did not have the prefix, so I would guess that the prefix was dropped around 1954. I don't know when New Haven ended steam operations.
I would be safe to assume the "0" was dropped after the steam locomotives are off the books.
I think, but am not certain, that the "0" was dropped during or after WWII. I have resource and will check on this, if someone else does not do so first.
I have seen pictures of early New Haven electric and diesel-electric diesel locomotives having a "0" (zero) in front of the number.
It seems like this was to distinguish those locomotives from steam locomotives.
Am i correct is this assumption? When was the leading zero discontinued as I have seem post WW2 pictures of the zero being painted out.
Thank you,
Ed Burns, Happily retired NP-BN-BNSF Clerk from Minneapolis and an ATCS host in Anoka, MN
P. S. I am happy to answer questions about the BNSF Staples, Wayzata subs and the Twin Cities Termina.
Login, or register today to interact in our online community, comment on articles, receive our newsletter, manage your account online and more!
Get the Classic Trains twice-monthly newsletter