The awe-inspiring story of BR Standard Class 9F No. 92203 — better known as “Black Prince”

Описание: Step into the world of British steam power and discover the awe-inspiring story of BR Standard Class 9F No. 92203 — better known as “Black Prince”.
Built in 1959 at Swindon Works, this locomotive wasn’t just a machine — it was the last great warrior of Britain’s steam age. Designed by Robert Riddles, the 9Fs were the ultimate in freight-hauling power: 2-10-0 wheel arrangement, a massive 250 psi boiler, and the brute strength to pull iron ore trains across the country.

But 92203’s story didn’t end when steam did.

Withdrawn in 1967 after just eight years in service, she was rescued from scrapping by the legendary wildlife artist and steam enthusiast David Shepherd — for the sum of just £3,000. He named her Black Prince, and what followed was nothing short of preservation legend.

In this video, we’ll take you through:

🚂 Her role hauling some of Britain’s heaviest freight trains
🏗️ The groundbreaking design that made the 9F class so special
🎨 David Shepherd’s vision and how he saved this iconic engine
💪 How Black Prince pulled the heaviest post-war freight train in the UK — a jaw-dropping 2,198 tonnes
🏞️ Her preserved life at the Longmoor Military Railway, East Somerset Railway, Gloucestershire Warwickshire Railway, and North Norfolk Railway
🛠️ The final move to Bressingham Steam Museum, where she now rests proudly on display

This isn’t just a locomotive—it’s a symbol of an era. A reminder of when British Railways turned out some of the most powerful steam locomotives in the world… only to see them vanish almost overnight.

Whether you're a lifelong rail enthusiast, a lover of engineering history, or simply fascinated by Britain's industrial heritage, this is a story you won’t want to miss.

🎥 Featuring rare archive footage, detailed technical insight, and expert commentary, this is the definitive documentary tribute to Black Prince.

💬 What’s your favourite preserved steam locomotive? Have you ever seen Black Prince in steam? Let us know in the comments!

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Video Credits
9F 92203 Black Prince
   • 9F 92203 Black Prince  

British Railways Class 9F 92203 'Black Prince' departing Weybourne
   • British Railways Class 9F 92203 'Black Pri...  

East Somerset Railway 9F Black Prince 1000 tons of stone
   • East Somerset Railway 9F Black Prince 1000...  

92203 hauling 2198 tonnes
   • 92203 hauling 2198 tonnes  

92203 'Black Prince' at Gloucestershire Warwickshire Steam Railway
   • 92203 'Black Prince' at Gloucestershire Wa...  

92203 🚂 Black Prince🚂 Awesome looking Class 9F Steam Railway Locomotive 🚂 Seen at Bressingham Museum.
   • 92203 🚂 Black Prince🚂 Awesome looking Clas...  

92203 'Black Prince' makes a spirited departure from Toddington on the GWSR - 31_05_2022
   • 92203 'Black Prince' makes a spirited depa...  

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