Raven A2 Pacific Project

At the dawn of the Pacific era in Britain, Sir Vincent Raven of the North Eastern Railway designed one of the country’s earliest 4-6-2 express locomotives — the Raven A2 Pacific. Introduced in 1922, only a small class was built, intended to lead the NER’s heavy, high-speed passenger services into a modern age.

These engines carried elegant lines and advanced superheating technology, but soon found themselves overshadowed by the later Gresley A1 and A3 Pacifics after Grouping. Even so, the Raven A2s stand as remarkable pioneers, showcasing the NER’s forward-thinking engineering and forming an important bridge between Edwardian steam practice and the streamlined giants that followed.

Although all were withdrawn by the early 1930s, their distinctive profile — tall boilers, graceful cab lines, and early-Pacific character — remains unforgettable.

At an estimated price of £175, you can now subscribe and support production to revive this bold, short-lived pioneer.