CP E141 to E144 series steam engines

Built in 1931.

The narrow-gauge steam locomotives, NORTE 101 to 104, later called series CP E141 to 144, were purchased by NORTE – Companhia dos Caminhos de Ferro do Norte de Portugal (Northern Portugal Railway Company) from the German manufacturer Henschel & Sohn. Built in 1931, the fleet of four was initially intended for the Guimarães Line but would eventually run on virtually the entire NORTE railway network, namely the Porto-Póvoa and Famalicão Line.

The arrival of these locomotives in Portugal created, at the time, a stark contrast with the rest of the narrow-gauge rolling stock, not only because of their appearance, but also because of the innovations they presented. With a maximum speed of 85 km/h, their smoke deflectors gave them a modern and imposing appearance. They stood out for their size and unique characteristics. They had a short chimney cover, duplicate controls for reverse operation, and were equipped with a turbo generator and electric headlights.

Their entry into service significantly improved service quality, particularly in terms of speed and regularity. Under the management of the Companhia dos Caminhos de Ferro Portugueses, the fleet retained its original characteristics, except for the logo and numbering, which were changed to E141-144.

Together with the Napolitan coaches, they formed the main passenger trains between Porto-Trindade and Póvoa de Varzim. At the end of their career, these steam engines ran frequently on the Guimarães Line.

The arrival of new narrow-gauge diesel rolling stock during the 1970s marked the end of commercial service for this series. However, part of the fleet remained operational until the early 1980s.

The CP E144 narrow-gauge steam locomotive has been preserved, with the NORTE logo and numbering, as part of the permanent exhibition at the National Railway Museum – Lousado Museum Centre.