Black 5

[stevendm]

I am an American that recently became interested in UK steam rail. To gather information I have begun to read Heritage Railway magazine. I have noticed something about the writing in this magazine that I do not understand. Whenever a 'Black 5' is written about the term is always in quotes. For example, it will say "'Black Five' No. xxxx recently ....". Other engine types, such as Pacific or Bulleid, are not quoted. Why is this?

Thanks

Steven
Austin, TX USA

 

[Phoenix]

I am not the biggest steam lover so I may be wrong but I think with Pacific etc they are slightly more official names but black fives are British railways standard 5's but due to the livery there were known as "Black fives" not sure why though.

 

[Stuart Galbraith]

Im no expert, but Im pretty sure 'Black 5's' and Standard 5s are totally different machines (though admittedly the latter were based upon, though much changed from, the 'Black 5' design.

Black 5s were designed for LMS, and they got called that because as pointed out it was an unofficial nickname. Im not sure what the original name for them was, Class 5?

What the hell do I know, Im a GWR nut.