The WAGR V-class locomotives were built by Robert Stephenson & Hawthorns Ltd under subcontract to Beyer-Peacock & Co, who were unable to fill the order for 24 V-class 2-8-2 main-line freight engines within the required delivery timeframe.  V 1220 was built in 1955 as Robert Stephenson & Hawthorn Ltd builder's number 7789, and also carries Beyer Peacock & Co builder's number 7745. ^(a)

The V-class proved to be very capable and successful locomotives and lasted to the very end of WAGR steam traction. ^(c)  The majority of the class were withdrawn in June 1971, although V 1208 / 1218 / 1219 and 1220 lasted until August 1972. ^(a)  Photos from that period show long lines of withdrawn S, W and V-class locomotives awaiting scrapping at Midland Workshops. ^(c)

V 1220 was saved for the collection of the ARHS at The Railway Museum, Bassendean in December 1972. ^(a)  My visit to this fine museum on 9 May 2002 found V 1220 displayed in WAGR green livery in open-weather display.  I also spotted a V-class smokebox in use as a BBQ wood shelter!  ^(c)

Page updated:  20 April 2011