The Norfolk & Western (N&W) Class “A” No. 1218 is an articulated coal-burning steam locomotive completed and delivered for service on June 2, 1943, by the Norfolk & Western Railway at their East End Shops in Roanoke. The 1218 is the only surviving Class “A” locomotive built by Norfolk & Western and the only surviving steam engine with the “2-6-6-4” wheel arrangement in the world – it exemplifies the N&W’s philosophy of modern, superpower steam locomotive design, the last great advance of steam locomotive technology in the 20th century. Originally operating until 1959, the locomotive routinely pulled 150 cars loaded with coal and fast freight merchandise trains at an average speed of 70 miles per hour. It was also used to move military troops and equipment during World War II. The N&W Class “A” No. 1218 Locomotive was restored in 1986 and used for passenger excursions between 1987-1991. The engine is currently parked at the Virginia Museum of Transportation in the city of Roanoke, along with the individually listed Norfolk & Western Class J No. 611 Locomotive.