The Western Maryland, primarily a coal-hauling railroad during its heyday, derived 50% of its revenue from the transportation of bituminous coal. A mountain railroad by its nature, coal shipments were challenged by the steep mountain grades found between Hagerstown, Maryland and Connellsville, Pennsylvania. In fact, the 21 mile route was filled with 1.75 percent grades and sharp 8 degree curves. To help tackle the fast-freight route, the Western Maryland turned to Eddystone in 1940 to produce the M-2 4-6-6-4 Challenger steam engine. Known as the 1200 Series, a total of 12 locomotives were built, each sporting a 22,000 gallon tender that held 30 tons of coal. According to Eddystone, one M-2 could haul an 11,000 ton train up the 1.75% grades though most runs were complemented with other locomotives, including 4-8-4 Northerns and 2-10-0 Decapods. Long requested by Western Maryland fans, this all-new model headlines our 2006 Premier Line roster. Built to scale proportions and sporting authentic Western Maryland livery (as well as several other road liveries), the M-2 is fully outfitted with all the standard features Premier Line fans have come to expect from M.T.H. Highlighted by our Proto-Sound 2.0 electronics package, the Western Maryland Challenger is sure to be the class of your freight locomotive roster.
Unit Measures:30 3/4" x 2 1/2" x 4"