Following the federal takeover of the nation's railroads in late 1917, the United States Railroad Administration (USRA) began developing standardized locos-a radical idea at the time-to create a national pool of engines that could be operated anywhere they were needed. Using common parts also simplified construction and repair. Among these designs was a heavy 2-8-2 for roads where track and bridges would support an engine slightly larger than a light Mikado. While 233 were built under USRA control, the design proved to be popular and over 900 copies were built with minor variations. Some 27 different railroads owned heavy "Mikes," many of which were later upgraded and rebuilt, and served until the end of steam.
 
This new series of models closely follows the original design, but includes some unique features to match the owners preferences such as headlight type, and road or footboard pilots. Engines will operate on 18" radius curves.