Fox Valley Models HO Scale 2-8-4 Berkshire, Pere Marquette/Post-War

In 1925, a significant advancement in locomotive design emerged with the introduction of the 2-8-4 wheel arrangement. This development was driven by the need for greater power and speed than the then-standard 2-8-2 locomotives could provide. Lima Locomotive Works responded to this need by adding an axle to the trailing truck, which allowed for a larger firebox, resulting in a substantial increase in power. After rigorous testing on the Boston & Albany Railroad, this new locomotive type earned the name "Berkshire" in honor of the mountain range it successfully traversed. The Lima Class A-1 2-8-4 Berkshire marked the beginning of the "Super-Power" era in American railroading, revolutionizing the industry with its enhanced capabilities.

By 1928, the Van Sweringen brothers, influential railroad magnates from Cleveland, Ohio, had consolidated a network of railroads under their control. This network included prominent lines such as the Erie Railroad, the Chesapeake & Ohio, the Pere Marquette, and the New York, Chicago, and St. Louis Railroad—better known as the "Nickel Plate Road." To further improve the performance of the Berkshire locomotives, the Van Sweringens established the "Advisory Mechanical Committee," which introduced several refinements to the original 2-8-4 design. These enhancements culminated in the creation of the "Nickel Plate Berk" by 1934, a locomotive that became iconic for its power and reliability.

The first of these Nickel Plate Berkshires were produced by the American Locomotive Company (ALCO), with subsequent orders being fulfilled by Lima Locomotive Works. The design was so successful that nearly identical versions were built for the Pere Marquette Railway. The final locomotive constructed by Lima was the Nickel Plate Berkshire #779, delivered in 1949, which marked the end of an era in steam locomotive production.

Today, eight of these historic Berkshire locomotives have been preserved, with six (6) Nickel Plate engines and two (2) Pere Marquette Berks surviving into the modern era. While most of these locomotives are on static display, two continue to operate regularly. Nickel Plate Road #765 is a celebrated excursion engine, often featured in heritage events and having played a significant role in Norfolk Southern's 21st Century Steam Program. Meanwhile, Pere Marquette #1225, based in Owosso, Michigan, not only continues to thrill rail enthusiasts but also served as the inspiration for the steam locomotive in the beloved holiday book and film, The Polar Express.