Originally intended principally as freight engines, they were often called upon for passenger duties during the wide fluctuations of traffic which occurred on the Highland Railway, particularly during the summer season.

The 4-6-0 wheel arrangement had its origins in the United States, and its introduction to Britain was the work of the Highland Railway's locomotive superintendent David Jones.

Although the type was a notable success for Jones, an accident while testing one of the locomotives caused one of his legs to be severely scalded.

It was restored to working order by British Railways in 1959 and spent several years operating enthusiasts' tours.

During this time, it appeared in the 1965 film Those Magnificent Men in their Flying Machines, playing the part of a French locomotive, complete with NORD lettering on the tender.