Mystery Steam Locomotive Photo pre1900 - Looking to ID

I have a very old sepia print of a steam locomotive that is pretty faded. I am trying to identify the railroad it is from. Nothing matches it in the rosters found in the New Haven power book. Here is what I can tell from the print.

It is a 2-6-0

It's number is probably 953, but could be 963 or 853/63. The number is on a circular plate centered on the smokebox.

It has link and pin couplers.

It has a 4 axle tender.

It is pulling a 4 axle caboose, all wood with a fairly low profile cupola.

It has a big square head lamp mounted above the smokebox and a tall straight stack.

My guess is that this loco is from a pre1900 Northeastern road. Any thoughts from the experts?

Thanks in advance, and Merry Christmas...

Ed Johnson

Sounds like it could be from New England Central, that is if it's NOt an original NYNH&HRR locomotive. The #'s you mentioned sound familiar, and they may fit for NHRR 2-6-0's, (refered to as "K" class.)
Coincidentaly, I am currently modeling one of these in HO scale, starting from an IHC mogul. I've been recently looking at SHORELINER mag's for pictures, and found a LOT of 2-6-0's, mostly post 1930, but I'd have to look again at them for engine #'s to be certain.
Try posting your inquiry on the New Haven RR Forum on the NHRHTA website.
Good luck!