Bachmann Branchline 31-460A SE & CR C Class No 583 OO Gauge Steam Locomotive

Bachmann 31-460A C Class 0-6-0 583 SE&CR Lined Green (Original)

Built: 1900 – 1908 for SE&CR (absorbed by the SR) for mixed traffic. Designed by Harry Wainwright

Wheels: 0-6-0

Model Features:

• Fully detailed and decorated cab interior

• Adjustable tender draw-bar length

• Sprung buffers

• Hinged tender fall-plate

Ideal for use with our Birdcage Coaches

 History

The end of the 19th century saw the formation of the South Eastern and Chatham Railway, uniting the South Eastern Railway and the London Chatham & Dover Railway under one managing committee. Following the inauguration of its new Locomotive and Carriage Superintendent, Harry Wainwright, a project was begun to replace the small and ailing locomotives of the constituent railways with larger and more powerful machines. The C Class was created as the new railway’s statement goods locomotive, and 109 were constructed between 1900 and 1908. Although used primarily for freight duties, the C Class locomotives were also occasionally engaged in passenger work when required, often for Kent ‘hop pickers’ services.

Simple yet robust in construct, the C Class locomotives proved to be a notable success. They gave little trouble in service, achieved good speed and, for engines of a 0-6-0 wheel arrangement, provided a surprisingly comfortable ride. These qualities contributed to a long working life, with all but two of the locomotives surviving into BR ownership and many lasting until the electrification of the Kent Coast in 1959-60. Withdrawals began in 1953 and accelerated during the electrification project.

One locomotive from the class – 592 (Southern Railway 1592, BR 31592) – has been preserved and can be seen on the Bluebell Railway.

The Bachmann 36-557 DCC decoder is suitable for use with this locomotive.