J. Craig Thorpe (American, B. 1948) "Pennsylvania Railroad K4" Signed lower right. Original Oil on Paper.

Provenance: Collection of James A. Helzer (1946-2008), Founder of Unicover Corporation.

This painting was originally published on the Republic of the Marshall Islands First Day Cover for the 55c Pennsylvania Railroad K4 4-6-2 stamp issued August 23, 1996.

The K4 was one of the most successful mass-produced passenger steam locomotives in America. Some 425 were constructed, the majority by Juniata Shops from 1914 to 1928, and 75 by Baldwin Locomotive Works in 1927. Basic specifications were never altered over the years -- a testimony to the simplicity and efficiency of its design. The K4 was the principal passenger locomotive for Pennsylvania Railroad, the most important railroad in America, hauling 10 percent of the nation's freight and 20 percent of its passengers. PRR's lines stretched from New York, Philadelphia, Baltimore and Washington in the east, to Buffalo, Pittsburgh, Cleveland, Detroit, Cincinnati, Indianapolis, Chicago and St. Louis in the midwest. The K4 served in main line, secondary and branch line duties. Even after the introduction of diesel locomotives, in the early 1950s, K4s continued to haul commuter trains until November 1957 -- the end of Pennsylvania Railroad's steam power.

Image Size: 10 x 13.25 in.
Overall Size: 14 x 18 in.
Unframed.
(B15306)

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