The prototype was a Barclay Class 'A' tank of which quite a few were
built, most if not all being 3' gauge. They were popular with civil
engineering contractors who mainly used 3'. One survives tho not in
running condition at the Scottish Railway Preservation Society site at
Bo'ness. It was, I believe one of a number built for the Scots
contractors Morrison & Mason. It ended its career at the British
Aluminium Corp plant at Foyers above Loch Ness. There ia a family
cpnnection of sorts as I have photo of two class A tanks and a Bagnall
working at my Father's home village of Bucknell on a contract to build a
water pipe line from mid-wales to the middle of England (Birmingham).
>From the photo I would say that the locos were probably bought new for
this contract as they are in sparkling condition.
Sam E
[EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote:
>
> Hi,
> To my knowledge, the last loco Tom Cooper marketed in America was based on
> the Barclay Locomotive Works Aileen. By coincidence, Mr. Andrew Barclay,
> founder of said locoworks in Kilmarnock(sp) has a grandson living in the
> states. He visited me at The Depot today "Andy" and I have been friends since
> 1983. He is a machine tool salesman and did his apprentice as a machinist
> under direction of his grandfather. Andy is also a fan of single malt Scotch
> whiskies. We share and exchange thoughts on such libations. We found out
> today that we both had just tried The Balvenie DoubleWood 12 yr. old ....
> Excellent Scotch.
> I own a Cooper Aileen, and it is one of the most reliable locomotives I have
> ever owned. It cost around $300.00 new and today it outpulls the Rube with
> ease. I've modified mine quite a bit in appearance, but would like to get one
> in original condition to give to Andy.
> Keep your steam up!
> Walt
> PS Barclay Loco Works is still in operation, but does not build steamers
> anymore, just diesel loco's. The Barclay family is no longer affiliated with
> the company.
