Virginian & Ohio photo tribute

Allen McClelland’s HO Virginian & Ohio was freelanced but prototypical. Here the line doubles back on itself to climb a mountain, much like the full-size Clinchfield RR, one of Allen’s favorites. W. Allen McClelland photo

In its 1975 era, the V&O had already merged into the Appalachian Lines to compete with larger rail systems. Here at the remodeled Afton, Va., engine terminal, blue-and-white V&O units are joined by a red-and-yellow locomotive from one of the merger partners, Tony Koester’s Allegheny Midland. W. Allen McClelland photo

Closely following prototype examples, the V&O of 1968 still ran a few passenger trains. However, like westbound No. 11 here accelerating through Blackstone, Va., they served a dwindling ridership, provided few amenities, and carried mostly “head-end” business, express and bulk mail. W. Allen McClelland photo

A Virginian & Ohio General Electric unit leads Electro-Motive diesels of the Allegheny Midland and V&O taking train No. 83 out of the Jimtown Yard. The V&O, AM, and Virginia Midland merged to form the Appalachian Lines. Paul J. Dolkos photo

The chief executives of the three railroads that form the Appalachian Lines rode an inspection train east over the Gauley Subdivision behind V&O 2-6-6-2 no. 2900. The special met hotshot 83 at the summit near New Garver. Coal magnate Otto Brauer recently restored the compound articulated. Paul J. Dolkos photo

The Lower Yew Turn stops to switch the Otto Brauer Coal Co.’s tipple on the Stone Creek Sub on its way back to South Marlinton. This line’s sharp curves and light bridges can accommodate only smaller hoppers and four-axle power. Paul J. Dolkos photo