Specifications [+]

The 4-4-0 American locomotive was the classic steam-based hauler that helped to build the United States into a global power during the late-1800s. The 4-4-0 "American" locomotive was a popular steam-based loco unit appearing during the mid-late 1800s and into the early 1900s, first becoming available in tender engine form in 1836 with the Philadelphia, Germantown and Norristown Railway. The tank engine version followed in Britain in 1849 (built by Great Western Railway and operated by South Devon Railway). The arrangement involved four large wheels to a frame side with four smaller wheels seated at front. Visually, only two of the small and two of the large wheels were seen to a side, hence the 4-4-0 Whyte notation being assigned.

The name "American", originating from a publication in 1872, stems from its prolific, widespread use in the United States during the period though it also came to be known as the "Eight Wheeler" and "Standard / American Standard".

The 4-4-0 was evolved from the earlier 4-2-0 ("Jervis") and, itself, became the basis for the 4-4-2 ("Atlantic") that followed. Early 4-4-0 and 2-4-0 ("Porter") designs were rebuilt to the 4-4-0 standard, such was its imprint on American railroads. Over the life of its operational service, the 4-4-0 was modified to include such comforts as a covered cab for the crew and its original size and power grew to keep pace with the development of American cities and industry.

The popularity of 4-4-0 Eight Wheelers was such that it was manufactured into the early 1900s in the United States, the design noted for its improved tractive effort and general overall reliability while lacking acceleration. Maximum speed was typically around 50 miles-per-hour - though one example built in England by Swindon Works is said to have exceeded 100 mph in 1904 and New York Central operated a 4-4-0 to a speed of 112.5mph.

The 4-4-0 was utilized extensively beyond American and British borders, seeing operational service in countries including Australia and Finland and even into Africa for its part in railway history.

The 4-4-0 wheel arrangement makes up the iconic locomotive featured in Walt-Disney's Magic Kingdom. It were also the loco design forms featured in the "Great Locomotive Chase" of the American Civil War 1861-1865 (these being "The General" and "The Texas" built in 1855 and 1856, respectively).

Fewer than eight working examples are operated throughout North America today.

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Specifications [ 4-4-0 (American / 8-Wheeler / Standard) ]

1836 - 1904
Production Run

25,000 units
Production Total

80.5 kph
(50.0 mph)
Max Speed

Image of the 4-4-0 (American / 8-Wheeler / Standard)

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