Queen of Trains Returns to Virginia

Queen of Trains Returns to Virginia

From Charlottesville News Today | 2 Min News | The Daily News Now! by The Daily News Now!

June 12, 2026 · 2 min

About this episode

The Norfolk and Western Class J-611 steam engine, known as the 'Queen of Trains,' has returned to Virginia, captivating fans with its historical significance and majestic presence.

The legendary Norfolk and Western Class J-611, nicknamed the “Queen of Trains,” made a long-awaited return to Staunton, Virginia, thrilling fans after years of anticipation. This rare steam engine, the only one of its kind still running from the 1980s, requires a dedicated crew and hundreds of hours of maintenance to operate. For longtime admirers like Karen Sions and her family, witnessing its majestic roar and billowing smoke was pure magic. Now on a scenic Virginia tour, the J-611 isn’t just a train—it’s a living piece of history, connecting modern audiences to the golden age of rail travel and the state’s rich industrial past. Support the show: Get a discount at https://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN: advertise@thednn.ai This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting. Report issues to feedback@thednn.ai. View sources & latest updates: https://sources.thednn.ai/46ffb8a8ff7c6f3a

Topics covered

  • steam engine
  • rail travel
  • Virginia history
  • Norfolk and Western
  • J-611
  • industrial past
  • train enthusiasts

Keywords

  • Queen of Trains
  • Norfolk and Western
  • Class J-611
  • steam engine
  • Virginia
  • rail travel
  • history
  • Staunton

Sponsors

Solipillow

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: Norfolk and Western

Places: Virginia, Staunton

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