Locomotives - Roanoke Machine Works 2-8-0 Type Engine Number 117 Canvas Print

On September 3, 1881, the Roanoke Machine Works was chartered by the county of Roanoke, Virginia. Considered to be one of the finest steam locomotive construction shops in America, it was established to build and repair equipment of the Norfolk & Western and Shenandoah Valley railroads. The machine shop contained two monorail cranes designed for hoisting heavy material. They were propelled by a seemingly endless rope that extended the length of the building. Wall-mounted gas jets lit the overall work area, while individual candles were used by those who needed stronger light to perform close work. During the sweltering heat of Virginia's summer months, workers bought their own ice for the drinking water. Curiously, it was believed that the consumption of cold water was detrimental to one's health. Thus, liberal quantities of oatmeal were added to counter any possible"ill effects." A telephone was installed in the watchman's shanty for the sole purpose of contacting help in the even...