1. Home
  2.  ›
  3. Fallen Flags
  4.  ›
  5. Pennsylvania Railroad
  6.  ›
  7. Liberty Limited

The "Liberty Limited": Washington - Chicago

Last revised: August 25, 2024

By: Adam Burns

The Liberty Limited was a train born during the initial streamliner revolution of the 1930s.

While at the time the Pennsylvania Railroad carried a rather conservative approach to the idea of streamlining in general it was quite proactive in upgrading its long distance trains to such status, particularly with rival New York Central embracing the new fad at that time.

The Liberty was one of the original three trains of the PRR's "Fleet of Modernism" (which also rivaled the NYC's "All Steel Fleet") and the railroad wasted no effort in promoting this concept to the public in an effort to gain as much patronage as it possibly could. From a more technical perspective the Liberty was actually a direct competitor to the B&O in the market it served. 

The train was quite popular through World War II although lack of ridership after that time forced the PRR to eventually cancel the train by the late 1950s.  Alas, the Liberty's routing today is also partially gone as the once double-tracked and signaled corridor between Harrisburg and Baltimore is largely abandoned today.

In a scene that could have been taken during the height of Pennsylvania's passenger era, Bennett Levin's pair of restored Pennsy E8A's lead the "Gateway Tripper" Amtrak excursion over the Ohio River at Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania on July 7, 2007. Wade Massie photo.

History

The Liberty Limited debuted on the PRR on June 15, 1938. That day held significance for a number of other reasons as well.

It was also the inauguration of three other long distance trains in the Pennsy fleet that were all debuting streamlined equipment including the Spirit of St. Louis (New York - St. Louis), General (New York - Chicago), and the flagship Broadway Limited (Chicago - New York).

It was these runs that initiated the PRR's "Fleet of Modernism" although only the Broadway was entirely streamlined while its counterparts were partially upgraded. In total, this initial order of streamlined equipment from Pullman-Standard included 52 cars which the PRR spread out among its fleet.

All of the trains' interior designs and exterior livery were thanks to industrial designer Raymond Loewy. It was Loewy who came up with the PRR's famous "Cat Whisker" pinstripes and dark Tucsoan red livery.

This first paint scheme used a two-tone Tuscan red with elegant gold pinstriping and lettering and all-black roofs for the cars (a later design used a more traditional all-red livery).

The interior of all four trains were decorated in various patterns of blue and yellow taking a softer and more colorful approach to the NYC's Gothic dark greys. For power with these early streamlined trains the Pennsy used its tried and proven Class K4s Pacific steam locomotives.

The 1938 version of the Liberty (listed as trains #58 and #59 on the Pennsy's official timetable) was a six-car, all-Pullman affair and included a coach (with reclining chairs), lounge-buffet, two sleepers, a diner, and a buffet-lounge-observation that was a streamlined design punctuated by a stylish keystone drumhead with Liberty Limited emblazoned on it.

Between July, 1939 and April, 1941 the PRR had added two new additions to its "Fleet of Modernism"; the Trail Blazer and Jeffersonian. These new trains used rebuilt heavyweight equipment and by 1941 the remaining fleet not streamlined was upgraded to such status when the railroad continued to churn out such rebuilt cars.

Timetable (August, 1938)

Read Down Time/Leave (Train #59) Milepost Location Read Up
Time/Arrive (Train #58)
5:10 PM (Dp)0.0
Washington, DC (Union Station) (ET)
8:50 AM (Ar)
5:55 PM40.0
Baltimore, MD
8:02 AM
7:30 PM96.2
York, PA
6:20 AM
8:08 PM (Ar)123.3
Harrisburg, PA
5:39 AM (Dp)
8:13 PM (Dp)123.3
Harrisburg, PA
5:33 AM (Ar)
10:38 PM254.1
Altoona, PA
3:05 AM
1:13 AM (Ar)368.0
Pittsburgh, PA
12:25 AM (Dp)
1:17 AM (Dp)368.0
Pittsburgh, PA
12:20 AM (Ar)
556.8
Crestline, OH
8:49 PM (Dp)
4:50 AM (Dp)556.8
Crestline, OH
8:44 PM (Ar)
628.9
Lima, OH (ET)
7:34 PM
6:00 AM (Ar)688.4
Fort Wayne, IN (CT)
5:35 PM (Dp)
6:05 AM (Dp)688.4
Fort Wayne, IN (CT)
5:30 PM (Ar)
F 7:03 AM752.6
Plymouth, IN
F 4:36 PM
F 8:00 AM811.4
Gary, IN
F 3:44 PM
F 8:06 AM816.5
Indiana Harbor, IN
8:21 AM829.4
Englewood, IL (Union Station)
3:24 PM
8:35 AM (Ar)836.4
Chicago, IL (Union Station)
3:10 PM (Dp)

Throughout the early 1940s the Liberty and all of PRR's the long distance streamliners continued to utilize steam power. However, this changed after the end of World War II as production ramped up on and America was free of the conflict.

Around 1947 the PRR began placing orders for new diesel locomotives as well as brand new equipment from Pullman-Standard to update its fleet with lightweight, streamlined cars. The new diesels included Alco's PAs, EMD's E7s (and later E8), Fairbanks Morse's Erie-Builts, and Baldwin's DR-6-4-2000s.

Consists (1952)

It was at this time that the Pennsy's streamliner fleet sparkled the greatest. With the new locomotives perfectly matching the cars it was quite a sight seeing any of the "Fleet of Modernism" streaking across the countryside between the East Coast and Midwest.

Final Years

The updated, and final, version of the Liberty was a bit larger than the 1938 train including coaches, a lounge car, three full sleepers, a diner, a bar lounge, and a bar-lounge-observation (all of which included full-Pullman status).

For the Pennsylvania Railroad, the vast capital it spent on new equipment soon proved a waste of resources. By the 1950s patronage was quickly declining, so much so that by 1957 the railroad elected to cancel the Liberty altogether and shift its equipment to the General in an effort to reduce expenses.

As it turns out the train was one of the first named trains the PRR discontinued although most of its counterparts were not far behind it as consolidations would continue through the 1960s.

Recent Articles

  1. New Jersey "Father's Day" Train Rides

    May 19, 26 11:59 AM

    172361264615675855.jpg
    There are a few locations in New Jersey celebrating dads with a train ride. Learn more about these unique trips here!

    Read More

  2. Illinois 'Murder Mystery' Dinner Train Rides

    May 19, 26 11:56 AM

    14180316949_0e9a4fafa4_o.jpg
    Among Illinois's scenic train rides, one of the most unique and captivating experiences is the murder mystery excursion.

    Read More

  3. Kentucky 'Dinner Train' Rides From Bardstown

    May 19, 26 11:53 AM

    52769945142_c47f285374_k.jpg
    The essence of My Old Kentucky Dinner Train is part restaurant, part scenic excursion, and part living piece of Kentucky rail history.

    Read More

  4. Vermont 'Murder Mystery' Dinner Train Rides

    May 19, 26 11:50 AM

    8237425354235427872689297.jpg
    There are currently murder mystery dinner trains offered in Vermont but until recently the Champlain Valley Dinner Train offered such a trip!

    Read More

  5. Ohio - Beer Tasting - Train Rides

    May 19, 26 11:49 AM

    917824712465216872596868977.webp
    The Ohio Rail Experience's Quincy Sunset Tasting Train is a new offering that pairs an easygoing evening schedule with a signature scenic highlight: a high, dramatic crossing of the Quincy Bridge over…

    Read More

  6. Texas 'Beer Tasting' Train Rides

    May 19, 26 11:43 AM

    97152431241257388796897897.jpg
    Texas State Railroad's “Pints In The Pines” train is one of the most enjoyable ways to experience the line: a vintage evening departure, craft beer samplings, and a catered dinner at the Rusk depot un…

    Read More

  7. South Dakota 'Wine Tasting' Train Rides

    May 19, 26 11:40 AM

    25378396769_5ee5ad8c84_k.jpg
    For wine enthusiasts and adventurers alike, South Dakota introduces a novel way to experience its local viticulture: wine tasting aboard the Black Hills Central Railroad.

    Read More

  8. New Mexico 'Wine Tasting' Train Rides

    May 19, 26 11:33 AM

    1827316425231872689709907908.jpg
    For oenophiles and adventure seekers alike, wine tasting train rides in New Mexico provide a unique opportunity to explore the region's vineyards in comfort and style.

    Read More

  9. Amtrak's First Airo Trainset Arrives in Seattle

    May 19, 26 10:01 AM

    289374723642375786898978988.jpg
    Amtrak's next-generation Airo passenger trainset has officially arrived in Seattle, marking a major milestone in the railroad's largest fleet overhaul in decades and the start of a new era for travel…

    Read More

  10. Maine "Ice Cream" Tasting Train Rides

    May 19, 26 09:49 AM

    91823417625125142345146785896.jpg
    The Maine Narrow Gauge Railroad & Museum’s Ice Cream Train is a family-friendly Friday-night tradition that turns a short rail excursion into a small event.

    Read More

  11. TP&W Railway Timetables (January, 1930)

    May 18, 26 03:23 PM

    012091283716253412431456768789.jpg
    Featured here is the Toledo, Peoria & Western Railway's timetables listed in the January, 1930 edition of the "Official Guide Of The Railways."

    Read More

  12. CSX SD40-2 8888, "Crazy Eights": The 2001 Runaway Train

    May 18, 26 02:02 PM

    99817243712653125465236869897088.jpg
    On May 15, 2001, a single locomotive—CSX SD40-2 No. 8888—began one of the most infamous runaway train incidents in American railroad history.

    Read More

  13. North Carolina "Ice Cream Tasting" Train Rides

    May 18, 26 01:40 PM

    82416246521278358968998070777.jpg
    One of the most popular warm-weather offerings at NCTM is the Ice Cream Train, a simple but brilliant concept: pair a relaxing ride with a classic summer treat.

    Read More

  14. New York "Ice Cream Tasting" Train Rides

    May 18, 26 01:32 PM

    129873412641245612785928667.jpg
    While CMRR runs several seasonal excursions, one of the most family-friendly (and, frankly, joyfully simple) offerings is its Ice Cream Express.

    Read More

  15. New Mexico 'Murder Mystery' Train Rides

    May 18, 26 12:31 PM

    9875422q2rtrtr4e6t65r.jpg
    Among Sky Railway's most theatrical offerings is “A Murder Mystery,” a 2–2.5 hour immersive production that drops passengers into a stylized whodunit on the rails.

    Read More

  16. Michigan 'Murder Mystery' Dinner Train Rides

    May 18, 26 12:28 PM

    12i47127634123561258712378287896893789.jpg
    Among the lesser-known treasures of this state are the intriguing murder mystery dinner train rides—a perfect blend of suspense, dining, and scenic exploration.

    Read More

  17. Ohio 'Wine Tasting' Train Rides

    May 18, 26 12:24 PM

    54063270967_8ea485da9a_k.jpg
    Among the intriguing ways to experience Ohio's splendor is aboard the wine tasting trains that journey through some of Ohio's most picturesque vineyards and wineries.

    Read More

  18. Pennsylvania 'Wine Tasting' Train Rides

    May 18, 26 12:22 PM

    912743174352378268979008.jpg
    Wine tasting trains are a unique and enchanting way to explore the state’s burgeoning wine scene while enjoying a leisurely ride through picturesque landscapes.

    Read More

  19. Minnesota BBQ Tasting Train Rides

    May 18, 26 12:10 PM

    92783528352876589264393696077.jpg
    If you’re looking for a perfect mix of nostalgia, stunning Lake Superior views, and mouthwatering food, the North Shore Scenic Railroad in Duluth, Minnesota, delivers—literally.

    Read More

  20. South Carolina BBQ Tasting Train Rides

    May 18, 26 12:05 PM

    9028827358258299187268930979808.jpg
    There is only location in the Palmetto State offering a true dinner train experience can be found at the South Carolina Railroad Museum. Learn more here.

    Read More

  21. Cotton Belt Railroad Timetables (January, 1930)

    May 18, 26 12:00 AM

    59001982361236512yt42367598027.jpg
    Featured here is the St. Louis Southwestern Railway's timetables from the January, 1930 edition of the "Official Guide Of The Railways."

    Read More

  22. Pere Marquette Timetables (January, 1930)

    May 17, 26 11:42 PM

    40093ytwvnhg9095iq90958753892757.jpg
    Presented here is the Pere Marquette Railway's timetables from the January, 1930 edition of the "Official Guide Of The Railways."

    Read More

  23. Minneapolis & St. Louis Timetables (August, 1952)

    May 17, 26 01:19 PM

    2612093012831623g1f245165798206.jpg
    Featured here is the Minneapolis & St. Louis Railway's timetables featured in the August, 1952 edition of the "Official Guide Of The Railways."

    Read More

  24. Virginia 'Murder Mystery' Dinner Train Rides

    May 17, 26 01:10 PM

    679569bv3442q354789675.jpg
    Among the state's railroad attractions, murder mystery dinner trains stand out as a captivating fusion of theatrical entertainment, fine dining, and scenic travel.

    Read More

  25. Maryland 'Murder Mystery' Dinner Train Rides

    May 17, 26 12:42 PM

    91724176524124615878926908707.jpg
    Maryland is known for its scenic landscapes, historical landmarks, and vibrant culture, but did you know that it’s also home to some of the most thrilling murder mystery dinner trains?

    Read More

  26. Ohio "BBQ Tasting" Train Rides

    May 17, 26 11:28 AM

    919231523512563712587687.jpg
    Among the HVSR's most popular special events is the “Starbrick BBQ Ribs and Wings Dinner Train,” a culinary-themed excursion that combines classic barbecue cuisine with a relaxing evening rail journey…

    Read More

  27. Florida "BBQ Tasting" Train Rides

    May 17, 26 11:24 AM

    2612461264512787298666.jpg
    While Florida does not currently offer any BBQ train rides the Florida Railroad Museum does host a similar event, a campfire experience!

    Read More

  28. Wisconsin "BBQ Tasting" Train Rides

    May 17, 26 11:18 AM

    86123621326385896893790889089.jpg
    The Wisconsin Great Northern Railroad will once again welcome passengers aboard its popular Spring BBQ Dinner Train in 2026.

    Read More

  29. Colorado "BBQ Tasting" Train Rides

    May 17, 26 11:14 AM

    568vstreu5977353468.jpg
    One of the most popular ways to ride the Leadville Railroad is during a special event—especially the Devil’s Tail BBQ Special, an evening dinner train that pairs golden-hour mountain vistas with a hea…

    Read More

  30. West Virginia 'Wine Tasting' Train Rides

    May 17, 26 11:07 AM

    182746126415624563827892687.jpg
    West Virginia, often celebrated for its breathtaking landscapes and rich history, offers visitors a unique way to explore its rolling hills and picturesque vineyards: wine tasting trains.

    Read More

  31. Utah 'Wine Tasting' Train Rides

    May 17, 26 11:06 AM

    483065061_1043090677854796_6203365029670081509_n.jpg
    Utah, a state widely celebrated for its breathtaking natural beauty and dramatic landscapes, is also gaining recognition for an unexpected yet delightful experience: wine tasting trains.

    Read More

  32. LS&I Railroad Timetables (January, 1930)

    May 17, 26 12:17 AM

    9812832734872358928606666.jpg
    Featured here is the Lake Superior & Ishpeming Railroad's timetable listing from the January, 1930 edition of the "Official Guide Of The Railways."

    Read More

  33. The Wellington Avalanche: One Of America's Deadliest Train Disasters

    May 16, 26 11:31 PM

    98213712651471278952837587268923986.jpg
    The Wellington Avalanche was the deadliest such disasters in the U.S. and one of the worst railroad accidents of all time resulting in 96 deaths in 1910.

    Read More

  34. International-Great Northern Timetables (January, 1910)

    May 16, 26 01:44 PM

    66182365152316524715723578296867.jpg
    Featured here is the International-Great Northern's timetables listed in the January, 1910 edition of the "Official Guide Of The Railways."

    Read More

  35. Illinois Terminal Timetables (January, 1930)

    May 16, 26 12:08 PM

    1617715919023502712531547159290.jpg
    Covered here is the Illinois Terminal's timetables from the January, 1930 edition of the "Official Guide Of The Railways."

    Read More

  36. Grand Trunk Western Timetables (August, 1952)

    May 16, 26 11:58 AM

    779239581264236735826902890937.jpg
    Included here is the Grand Trunk Western's timetable listing from the August, 1952 edition of the "Official Guide Of The Railways."

    Read More

  37. Florida 'Beer Tasting' Train Rides

    May 16, 26 11:18 AM

    9871243612467826539897889.jpg
    Among the Sugar Express's most popular “kick off the weekend” events is Sunset & Suds—an adults-focused, late-afternoon ride that blends countryside scenery with an onboard bar and a laid-back social…

    Read More

  38. Illinois 'Beer Tasting' Train Rides

    May 16, 26 11:16 AM

    7661523512rt312476157815856.jpg
    Among IRM’s newer special events, Hops Aboard is designed for adults who want the museum’s moving-train atmosphere paired with a curated craft beer experience.

    Read More

  39. Wisconsin 'Beer Tasting' Train Rides

    May 16, 26 11:14 AM

    8945757342243565987080.jpg
    The East Troy Railroad Museum's Beer Tasting Train, a 2½-hour evening ride designed to blend scenic travel with guided sampling.

    Read More

  40. Minnesota 'Murder Mystery' Dinner Train Rides

    May 16, 26 11:12 AM

    987582745782689897890098.jpg
    Murder mystery dinner trains offer an enticing blend of suspense, culinary delight, and perpetual motion, where passengers become both detectives and dining companions on an unforgettable journey.

    Read More

  41. Georgia 'Murder Mystery' Dinner Train Rides

    May 16, 26 11:10 AM

    8654sart8789755767.jpg
    In the heart of the Peach State, a unique form of entertainment combines the thrill of a murder mystery with the charm of a historic train ride.

    Read More

  42. Vermont 'Wine Tasting' Train Rides

    May 16, 26 11:07 AM

    9127361234612478125985666.jpg
    Known for its stunning green mountains, charming small towns, and burgeoning wine industry, Vermont offers a unique experience that seamlessly blends all these elements: wine tasting train rides.

    Read More

  43. Rhode Island 'Wine Tasting' Train Rides

    May 16, 26 11:05 AM

    917823716235152351624615899866.jpg
    It may the smallest state but Rhode Island is home to a unique and upscale train excursion offering wide aboard their trips, the Newport & Narragansett Bay Railroad.

    Read More

  44. AHRS Receives UP SD40-2 3593 "Desert Victory"

    May 16, 26 10:59 AM

    2060935723742986299291729878.jpg
    The American Heartland Railroad Society is pleased to announce the donation of the historic Union Pacific SD40-2 #3593, also known as Desert Victory, from the Rapid City, Pierre and Eastern Railroad.

    Read More

  45. Green Bay & Western Timetables (March, 1940)

    May 16, 26 10:05 AM

    957330057192b8840o559202.jpg
    Featured here is the Green & Western Railroad's brief timetable listing from the March, 1940 edition of the "Official Guide."

    Read More

  46. EJ&E Railway Timetables (January, 1930)

    May 15, 26 11:40 PM

    81871715828961876870094889279.jpg
    Featured here is the Elgin, Joliet & Eastern Railway's timetables presented in the January, 1930 edition of the "Official Guide."

    Read More

  47. Duluth, Winnipeg & Pacific Timetables (January, 1930)

    May 15, 26 11:26 PM

    6701092872879823609034907089.jpg
    Covered here is the Duluth, Winnipeg & Pacific Railway's brief timetable listing from the January, 1930 edition of the "Official Guide."

    Read More

  48. Historic B&O Station In Wheeling Reborn

    May 15, 26 02:27 PM

    90091923126356123621758596.jpg
    On a crisp May morning in 2026, state officials, college leaders, and community members gathered outside the stately French Renaissance-style building that has anchored downtown Wheeling for more than…

    Read More

  49. Fort Worth and Denver Railway: The "Denver Road"

    May 15, 26 01:10 PM

    29783823267694893986666.jpg
    The Fort Worth and Denver Railway (reporting mark FWD), nicknamed "the Denver Road," was a Class I American railroad that operated primarily in northern Texas from 1881 to 1982.

    Read More

  50. Rio Grande 2-8-0 340 To Operate On The Durango & Silverton

    May 15, 26 12:28 PM

    182637124127828793589607.avif
    The Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad is thrilled to announce a once-in-a-generation homecoming: former Denver & Rio Grande Western (D&RGW) 2-8-0 340 will operate on its original Colorado narr…

    Read More