The JGR Class 110 (originally the JGR Class A) is a 2-4-0T Porter-type side tank steam locomotive operated by the Japanese Government Railways from October 1872 to January 1924.
History[]
The Class 110 was one of the earliest steam locomotives operated in Japan. The type was ordered by the JGR as one of their earliest steam locomotives, with a single locomotive manufactured by the Yorkshire Engine Company; this was one of ten British-imported steam locomotives operating in Japan around that time. The locomotive was assigned the Class A and numbered 3. The locomotive began operation on 14 October 1872 with the opening of Japan's first railway line; October 14 is celebrated as Railway Day in Japan even today to commemorate the line's opening. The locomotive was later reclassified as the Class A2.
After operating on the JGR for some time, the locomotive was sold to other railways for use. After the Railway Nationalization Act was passed in 1909, the locomotive was renumbered the Class 110. After returning to Tokyo the locomotive was formally retired in January 1924 and moved to Ōmiya Works for display. After retirement, the right side portion of the boiler was sectioned to allow for staff training usage and for general public interest. The locomotive was then moved back and forth between locations before finally settling down at Ōme Railway Park in 1962 when the park opened, still in its sectioned state. The locomotive left the park in 31 August 2019 to be moved to the CIAL complex of the JR East Sakuragicho Building, where it resides as of 2020. The locomotive was also restored with any sectioned portions covered up. Uniquely, the Class 110 remains the only steam locomotive operated by any Japanese railway to have been manufactured by the Yorkshire Engine Company.
Preservation[]
The following Class 110 locomotives have been preserved:
| Number | Manufacturer | Date manufactured | Serial number | Date withdrawn | Location | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 110 | Yorkshire Engine Company | 1871 | 164 | 10 April 1924 | CIAL Sakuragicho Annex, Yokohama, Kanagawa, Japan | Displayed indoors coupled to replica period-correct passenger car; formerly displayed at Ōme Railway Park sectioned to show inner workings |
Gallery[]
