Tehervonatok

Tehervonatok, meaning "herb trains" in Hungarian, refers to a series of steam locomotive classes introduced by the Hungarian State Railways (MÁV) in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. These locomotives were designed primarily for mixed-traffic duties, hauling both passenger and freight trains on secondary and regional lines. The name originates from the Hungarian word *teher*, meaning "freight," and *vonat*, meaning "train," though they were also used extensively for passenger services.

The most notable class in this series was the **MÁV 364.000**, often referred to as the "364" or "Tehervonat" type. Introduced in 1899, these locomotives were built by the Ganz Works and were among the first Hungarian-designed steam engines to achieve widespread success. They featured a 1-3-0 (Mikado) wheel arrangement, which provided excellent adhesion for heavy freight work while maintaining reasonable speed for passenger trains. The 364.000 class was known for its robustness, efficiency, and versatility, operating across Hungary’s diverse railway network.

During their service life, tehervonatok locomotives were used in various roles, including freight hauling, express passenger services, and even some military transport duties during World War I. Their design influenced later Hungarian locomotive classes, and many remained in service well into the mid-20th century. Some examples were preserved as static displays or restored for heritage railways, reflecting their historical significance in Hungarian railway development.

The term *tehervonatok* is also sometimes used colloquially to describe any older Hungarian steam locomotive, particularly those with a similar mixed-traffic role. While steam traction declined after World War II, the legacy of these locomotives endures in railway history, symbolizing Hungary’s industrial and engineering achievements of the era.