We are very happy to be able to show you the LNER J21 as it was first built as the NER Class C1 (and short lived Class C Compound versions).
Built between 1886 to 1894 the Class C (Compounds) and Class C1 (Saturated) engines were turned out in NER lined green. Although having minimal differences externally the compounds had a very different sound with 2 of the beats slightly delayed creating a very distinct chimney rhythm.
In 1903 the NER moved to a lined black livery, with N.E.R. lettering on the tender.
During this period all of the Compound C Class engines were converted to the Saturated C1 Class, which was then renamed to C Class! Also during this period some engines were fitted with superheated boilers - this process continued for many years, with engines frequently swapping their boilers back and forth and therefore their saturated or superheated status changed frequently.
From 1917 until grouping in 1923 the lining was stopped and engines were turned out in plain black, with a smaller plaque on the side of cab and the engine number now between the N and E on the tender.
The cab seen here is for an engine which only carries a basic steam brake - later combinations of steam brakes, air brakes, vacuum brakes and combined brakes all featured on the J21's and are part of the 200 engines covering 9 eras that will be available in the final pack.
Next week we'll take a look at the Class C when it became known as the LNER J21.
EXTRA: And here is a quick sneak peek at work in progress on some NER Clerestory coaches which will also be included in the pack.
