The JNR Class C50 is a 2-6-0 Mogul-type steam locomotive built for the JNR from 1929 to 1933.
History[]
The C50s were used mainly as passenger locomotives, with their design being based on the JNR Class 8620 steam locomotives. 154 locomotives were built in two batches; C50 1 to C50 67 were part of the first batch while C50 68 and onward are part of the second batch which incorporated some design changes. The locomotives were retired in 1974. Locomotives C50 1 to C50 5 were transferred to Taiwan where they served as the CT230 Class.
No members of the first batch of locomotives survived into preservation; however, six second-batch locomotives, namely C50 75, C50 96, C50 103, C50 123, C50 125 and C50 154 are preserved around Japan, although none are in operational condition.
The locomotives are popularly known as Shigomaru or Shigore (C50 in Japanese) among railfans.
Preservation[]
The following Class C50 locomotives have been preserved:
| Number | Manufacturer | Date manufactured | Serial number | Date withdrawn | Location | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| C50 75 | Kawasaki Sharyō | 7 December 1929 | 1333 | 8 March 1971 | Kita-Shikahama Park, Tokyo, Japan | Displayed under shelter within fence |
| C50 96 | Nippon Sharyo | 4 December 1929 | 240 | 16 February 1972 | Koishikawa Park, Yaizu, Shizuoka, Japan | Displayed under shelter; cab open for public viewing |
| C50 103 | Kisha Seizō | 13 March 1930 | 1120 | 9 April 1970 | Minamisōma City Museum, Minamisōma, Fukushima, Japan | Displayed under shelter; number plates missing |
| C50 123 | Hitachi | 2 May 1930 | 400 | 13 August 1970 | Ekihigashi Park, Oyama, Tochigi, Japan | Displayed under shelter; cab open for public viewing |
| C50 125 | 23 May 1930 | 402 | 22 May 1971 | Ekinan Park, Yanai, Yamaguchi, Japan | Displayed outdoors; cab open for public viewing | |
| C50 154 | Mitsubishi Heavy Industries | 9 February 1933 | 117 | 24 April 1973 | Kannonyama Park, Kameyama, Mie, Japan | Last Class C50 built, displayed under shelter; cab open for public viewing |