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#5 was constructed by the Baldwin
Locomotive Works in August, 1882 for use on the Central Railroad of
New Jersey. This locomotive was among a class of six small 0-6-0T
built for the CRR of NJ by Baldwin from 1880 to 1882. Originally
bearing the number #23, the engine was later renumbered #710 in
1903.
Through a railroad equipment broker
by the name of J.E. Bowen of Norfolk, Virginia, the Rahway Valley
Railroad acquired #5 in April of 1905 (Source: Frye). At the time of
#5's purchase the RVRR was being extended to Summit. #5 probably saw
use on work trains engaged in the line's
construction.
Due to stiff grades and the
locomotive's low tractive effort, #5 must've had limited use on the
Rahway Valley Railroad. Not only that, #5 was in poor repair. The
following was mentioned in a 1909 report, "Locomotive No. 5 reported
to be in need of repairs, and officials of the road advised that the
repairs will be made. It was recommended that the locomotives be
subjected to hydrostatic test, and that steam gauges be tested every
thirty days."
#5 was sold off in either 1913 or 1914 to a
contractor (Source:
Frye). | 
