Norfolk Southern Pocahontas Division, Buchanan Branch, Part 1

Norfolk Southern’s Buchanan Branch is a major coal contributor with a vast coal network. Located in the states of Kentucky and Virginia, this line is part of the former Norfolk and Western Pocahontas Division. The line hosts the largest coal producer on the division, the huge Consol Buchanan Mine at the end of the Buchanan Branch main. Like most branch-lines in coal country, the Buchanan Branch has a pusher district across Raitt Mountain. Frank Crowe made this trip in August of 2017 to document this heavy coal action. Take an in depth look at a mostly overlooked piece of railroad. Coal trains whining through mountain grades, Helper action, Coal Facilities and more! Don’t miss this action packed video tour on the Buchanan Branch!