Graphics and Lettering

We are working on a large graphic arts project with Big E Productions, LLC to recreate and preserve the many styles of lettering, logos, other related graphics and paint standards of the Pittsburgh & West Virginia Railway. When completed, this will be a fairly comprehensive library. Check back often as we'll add to this page as artwork is completed and more information becomes available.

The library contains both prototype information as well as useful information for modelers.

As you browse through the samples, you'll notice that the "standard" logos and lettering used at different times and on different cars are actually quite different. Stencils didn't last very long and each was hand made, hence there were many variations.

Please note that all images presented are copyrighted materials with rights administered by Big E Productions, LLC. The use of these images is bound by the Big E Productions, LLC Terms of Use which can be accessed by clicking here. This link will open in a new window or tab on Big E's website

For additional information, requests for licensing or to inquire about new projects, please contact Big E Productions, LLC or the webmasters at the Hi-Line website.

You must have Adobe Acrobat Reader installed to view or download the sample file. If you don't have it, you can get it here.

Paint Colors

Most of the following information is based on the actual paint if known. If you are modeling the P&WV, you will have to make adjustments to account for your lighting and weathering effects. Suggested model colors are not endorsements of any brand. We'll add more as more info becomes available. Floquil formulas courtesy of Railfonts.com.

Click to download the current color chart in PDF format.

Black

Most any basic black will do for both steam and diesel locomotives and rolling stock. The prototype color was most likely DuPont Dulux 93-005 or Ditzler 9000. Suggested Model Paints:

Polly Scale: F414110
Floquil: F110010
Tru-Color: TCP-010

Chrome Yellow

Likely candidates for the chrome yellow typically used for late steam lettering and diesel striping are DuPont Dulux 93-6808 and Ditzler 80502. This page's background is a good representation of the chrome yellow. Suggested model paints:

Floquil (unverified):
- 10 parts F110031 Reefer Yellow
- 1 part F110011 Reefer White
- 1 part F110166 UP Amour Yellow
Tru-Color: TCP-162 (unverified)

Red

Used for striping, logo stencils and lacquer decal background on the FM locomotives. Can also be used for cabooses. DuPont Dulux 93-1863R or Ditzler 70073. Suggested model paints:

Floquil (unverified):
- 2 parts F110186 Oxide Red
- 1 part F110020 Caboose Red
- 1 part F110073 Rust
Tru-Color: TCP-052 (unverified)

Mineral Red

Late era box cars and rebuilt, leased 50 ton hoppers, 1961 to 1964. Prototype paint information is unavailable at this time. Possibly NYC freight car red used on NYC hoppers Greenville rebuilt in the mid-fifties. Suggested model paints:

Floquil: F110601 Zinc Oxide Primer
Polyscale: F414293 Zinc Oxide Primer

Mineral Brown

ACF box cars, 1200 - 1299 series, 1947 through 1956. Prototype paint information is unavailable at this time. Suggested model paints:

Floquil: F110074 Box Car Red
Polyscale: F414281 Box Car Red
Tru-Color: TCP-011 Box Car Brown

Graphics and Lettering

Click the thumbnails to open the file.

Circular Logos

The circular logo was introduced in 1939. There were four different basic designs with many variations especially when it came to application on rolling stock.