Russell is a tank engine built by Crovan's Gate Steamworks who runs the Kirk Ronan Branch Line.
Russell | |
---|---|
Built |
1991 |
Builder |
Crovan's Gate |
Designer |
Russell Means |
Wheel configuration |
0-6-0T |
Number |
17 |
Bio
Russell was built to help on services on the Kirk Ronan Branch Line, as requested by the Fat Controller. He first began working with Toby, and eventually was allowed to run it on his own.
He is very busy in the summer due to the amount of people going to the beach at Kirk Ronan and Norramby.
More on Russell and on the Kirk Ronan Branch Line will be featured in The Engines of Sodor.
Appearences
- Season 16- New Challenges and Faithful Coaches (mentioned).
Mini-series:
- The Dark Days of Thomas the Tank Engine- Thomas' First Day (non-speaking role).
Persona
He is a bright and cheerful engine who does not mind what work he does.However, he tends to get excited easily, due to his age, but he means well. He is usually found on the Kirk Ronan Branch Line.
Livery
Russell is painted in NWR black with red lining with the number 17 on his cab, and his nameplate in gold lettering on a black background on his smoke box.
Basis
Though it has never been mentioned, Russell is a LNER W. Worsdell J72. He is based off the sole survivor of the class, BR No. 69023 (Departamental No. 59).
Trivia
- The character was named after and is dedicated to late Russell Means, an American-Indian actor and activist who played the role of Billy Twofeathers in Thomas and the Magic Railroad in 2000.
- When he was introduced in the mini-story, he bore the number 12, however preview to his official introduction in the sixteenth season, he was given the number 17.
- Unlike most engines in Adventures on Rails, Russell's number was real. The engine possessing this number is the only surviving member of the J72 class and is owned by the North Eastern Locomotive Preservation Group and is kept at the North Yorkshire Moors Railway.
Gallery
Credits
- Thanks to The LNER Encyclopedia for the image of BR No. 69020.