When did LIRR steam engines go from names to numbers?

[RAILDATA]

Hi All,

Helping a friend with some LIRR early steam roster data. He has
conflicting dates as to when the LIRR started changing to loco numbers
from names. He has dates of 1876 & 1887. Neither may be correct. If
anyone can help with this we would be most appreciative. If there is a
digital roster lurking about on line would really appreciate a link.

Secondly, does anyone have any LIRR steam loco diagram or class books
they would be willing to share a copy of? I have some diesel diagrams
and pass car dgm books be glad to provide copies of in return. Also
have diagrams and class books for many other roads.

Thanks for any help anyone can provide.

Allen Stanley
Greer, SC

[LongIslandTool]

Can't help with the engines, though I'm fairly certain they did have numbers in 1880, probably quite a bit before then also.

Here's a class book on ebay:

http://cgi.ebay.com/Long-Island-Railroa ... dZViewItem

Bid early and often.