ROANOKE, Va. – Rail fans got up close and personal with the Queen of Steam Friday.
A special group of visitors worked with the crew to fire up the 611.
This involves the process of lighting the coal to produce steam.
Students got to observe the process and have one-on-one time with the crew and the locomotive.
The event continues throughout the weekend with opportunities for visitors to blow the 611's whistle, ring the bell and receive tours of the cab.
The 611 was restored in 2014 after a fundraising effort by the Virginia Museum of Transportation.