1. Home
  2.  ›
  3. Fallen Flags
  4.  ›
  5. Seaboard Air Line

Seaboard Air Line Railroad: Map, Rosters, History

Last revised: October 12, 2024

By: Adam Burns

The Seaboard Air Line was another of the South's notable railroads, competing fiercely against Atlantic Coast Line and Southern Railway.  The SAL was somewhat smaller than the ACL and never as wealthy as the Southern.  

The company struggled in its early days and later experienced a bankruptcy after the Great Depression.  It eventually got back onto its feet, pulled through these troubled times, and spent its final three decades as a profitable railroad.  

When the streamliner craze hit the nation Seaboard beat its rival in launching the Silver Meteor, which began a highly successful passenger business to the Sunshine State until Amtrak in 1971.  

After more than 100 years of continued competition, the ACL and SAL agreed to a union in the 1960s forming Seaboard Coast Line.  

As many of the South's largest railroads came together the Seaboard System was formed in the early 1980's.  This large conglomerate went on to join CSX Transportation a few years later.  Today, parts of the Seaboard network are still owned by CSX while others are operated by short lines.

Photos

237237527357826983489747489.jpgOne of the Seaboard Air Line's rare, Baldwin-built DR-6-4-1500s, #2702, at Tampa, Florida on February 21, 1962. Warren Calloway collection.

History

The Seaboard Air Line carries an interesting name.  It did not operate airplanes, had no connection with the airline industry, and the name "Air Line" was part of its corporate heritage more than thirty years before the Wright Brothers' First Flight!  

The term was largely a marketing gimmick used by early promoters to describe a high-speed, arrow-straight railroad that was built with high fills, deep cuts, and towering bridges to achieve a low-grade route which passed high above the surrounding landscape.  

The term became popular during the 19th century and was a particular favorite of early interurban builders.  However, as everyone soon realized, such a well-engineered line proved far too expensive to be built at a reasonable cost.  The history of the Seaboard Air Line began long before acquiring its unique name.  

Portsmouth & Roanoke Rail Road

It started humbly, as did most railroads in those days, to serve the Norfolk region.  On March 8, 1832 the Portsmouth & Roanoke Rail Road (P&R) was granted a charter by the Virginia General Assembly to connect Portsmouth, Virginia with Weldon, North Carolina running in a southwesterly direction.  The initial 17 miles opened to Suffolk on September 4, 1834.

However, three more years would pass before the entire 78.6 miles was completed, opening for business in June of 1837.  

Here, the road made a connection with its future rival, Atlantic Coast Line predecessor Wilmington & Raleigh.  Beset with financial struggles the P&R entered receivership and was reorganized as the Seaboard & Roanoke in 1846.  

1927418275981235238738629627463264.jpgAn EMD builder's photo from March, 1948 featuring new Seaboard Air Line F3A #4024. Warren Calloway collection.

Expansion

There was little further growth for more than 20 years until after the Civil War.  In 1871 the P&R gained control of the Raleigh & Gaston, a system that had been incorporated in 1835 to connect Raleigh with Gaston, North Carolina (not far from Weldon).  Its construction began in 1836 but monetary issues caused delays and it was not finished until March 21, 1840.  

According to Mike Schafer's book, "More Classic American Railroads," despite its completion the road continued to founder, which led to the state of North Carolina becoming involved in 1845  

It oversaw things for several years including the 1853 opening of an interchange with the P&R at Weldon.  This link provided a continuous, all-rail route from Raleigh to the Norfolk area.

1872412654789215125792369582896.jpgSeaboard Air Line FT's lead a freight extra through Hamlet, North Carolina in the summer of 1960. Wiley Bryan photo/Warren Calloway collection.

The R&G takeover also gave the P&R control of the Raleigh & Augusta Air-Line Railroad which the former road controlled.  This was the first time "Air Line" appeared as part of a Seaboard predecessor. 

The R&AA-L began as the Chatham Railroad, chartered by the state in February 14, 1855 (from the 1877 booklet, "History Of The Raleigh & August Air-Line Railroad" compiled by Walter Clark, Attorney At Law) to build a rail line, "...between Deep River, at or near the Coalfields, in the county of Chatham, and the City of Raleigh or some point on the North Carolina Railroad."  

The project was riddled with delays and finally reorganized as the Raleigh & Augusta Air-Line in 1871.  It eventually reached Hamlet in 1877 which in later years was a major SAL terminal point.  

With a route that now extended through North Carolina the three roads offered a competitive network serving several important cities.  The South was also blossoming into an industrial giant in the area of cotton, agriculture/farming, textiles, and manufacturing.

The Seaboard Air Line Railroad logo. Author's work.

Together the R&G, P&R, and R&AA-L formed the backbone of the future Seaboard Air Line.  It was all tied together by businessman John M. Robinson who had acquired financial control of the trio in 1875.  

As a marketing tactic they were collectively known as the "Seaboard Air-Line System."  The name initially had no legal authority although as Robinson continued to extend southward that would change.  The first known official use of "Seaboard Air Line" appeared when it was pushing towards Atlanta.

It had already acquired the Georgia, Carolina & Northern Railway which intended to reach that city from Monroe, North Carolina.  Construction began in 1887 and was completed as far as Inman Park, east of Atlanta, by 1892.  

However, an ordinance prevented it from reaching the city directly.  To circumvent this issue the Seaboard Air Line Belt Railroad (SALB) was chartered in 1892 to build an 8-mile branch and a connection with the Nashville, Chattanooga & St. Louis at Howells.  From there the SALB utilized trackage rights over the Dixie Line to reach the downtown area.  

Just prior to this event Robinson would link Rutherfordton and Wilmington, North Carolina via Charlotte and Hamlet by acquiring the Carolina Central Railroad in 1883.  Rail service between these cities opened in 1887.

Seaboard Air Line F3A #4026, and other power, lays over in Alexandria, Virginia; July 21, 1963. American-Rails.com collection.

His railroad empire had now grown into a major regional system.  With an eye towards further expansion into the Deep South a subsidiary known as the Palmetto Railroad was formed.  It was chartered in 1882 in South Carolina and a year later in North Carolina.  

It had constructed 18 miles from Hamlet to Cheraw, South Carolina by 1887 before Robinson lost control of his empire in 1899.  In February that year Richmond bankers John L. Williams & Sons acquired a majority interest and looked to continue expansion.  

On July 1, 1900 they formed the Seaboard Air Line Railway to acquire all assets of the Robinson holdings and extend service both north and south (in 1901 the predecessors were officially merged into the new company).  One goal was already well underway, a direct link to the important city of Richmond.  

Robinson had already been pushing towards that city through the Richmond, Petersburg & Carolina.  It ran from a connection with the Raleigh & Gaston at Norlina, North Carolina and was ready for service by May of 1900.

Seaboard Air Line 2-8-2 #392 is seen here in service during the 1950s. Location not recorded. Ed Olsen photo. American-Rails.com collection.

Now under new ownership the William interests pushed southward and were well positioned to transform the Seaboard into a major southern system.  They already held stakes in two prominent railroads connecting parts of South Carolina, Georgia, and Florida.  

The Georgia & Alabama, incorporated in 1853, linked Montgomery with Savannah running via Vidalia, Americus, and Richland.  The much larger Florida Central & Peninsular joined Jacksonville with Tallahassee and then pushed south to Tampa, St. Petersburg, Fort Myers, and Sarasota.

It also ran north into Georgia and South Carolina at Savannah and Columbia.  The only thing the Williams' had left to do in opening a through route from Richmond to Florida was build a new stretch from the FC&P's end of track at Columbia to the Palmetto Railroad at Cheraw .  

According to Richard Prince's book, "Seaboard Air Line Railway: Steam Boats, Locomotives, And History," this 91-mile link began construction in 1899 and was completed from Cheraw to the FC&P at Cayce (on the west side of the Congaree River in Columbia) in 1900.

129471284128751982518725196986.jpgSeaboard Air Line E4A #3007 at Washington, D.C.'s Ivy City terminal circa 1939. Photo by Wiley Bryan from the Warren Calloway Collection; colorized by Tom Alderman.

Modern Network

The Seaboard's next major expansion occurred directly after this gap was closed.  It created the Atlanta & Birmingham Air Line Railway to acquire the bankrupt assets of the East & West Railroad of Alabama (E&W) in April of 1902.  

The E&W had already completed a segment from Cartersville, north of Atlanta, to Pell City, Alabama, east of Birmingham.  

The latter goal was the Seaboard's target.  By 1904 the link was established when a new route was built from Coal City, Alabama to Birmingham (37 miles) as well as a 43-mile direct connection to Atlanta via Rockmart.  With this line now in service the company focused its attention back east. 

The Georgetown & Western Railroad, serving northeastern segments of South Carolina, had been in receivership since 1902.  Realizing an opportunity to open new markets here the SAL purchased its assets in 1912, renaming it the Carolina, Atlantic & Western.  

The Seaboard went on to acquire other small, nearby properties which by 1915 gave it a connection to Charleston, Georgetown, Hartsville and Sumter from its end-of-track at Gibson, North Carolina and main line at McBee, South Carolina.  

It then built new trackage from Charleston to Savannah (90 miles).  The entire Hamlet - Charleston - Savannah line became SAL's primary freight route since it offered much easier grades than the line through Columbia.

System Map (1940)

Its very last expansion came just prior to the Great Depression when it opened a line to Miami in 1927 through subsidiaries Florida Western & Northern and the Seaboard-All Florida Railroad.  

With this link the Florida East Coast Railway, a system which had largely established the city, no longer had a monopoly down the state's Atlantic coast line.  

At this time the Seaboard reached its largest size with a network of nearly 4,500 route miles.  Unfortunately, trouble lay just over the horizon.  The depression proved extremely detrimental and it fell into bankruptcy, remaining there for more than a decade.  

However, it persevered through the 1930's by replacing some steam locomotives with diesels and launching the new streamliner, Silver Meteor, in 1939.   Its transition into a prominent southeastern railroad began at this time as it continued to improve.  

The company showed strong recovery through the World War II years by handling around 33 million tons of freight in single year during the conflict (1943).  It also began implementing Centralized Traffic Control for more efficient and safe operations on a largely single-tracked main line.

468669694_10170601993200529_1205911838131251953_n.jpgSeaboard Air Line's colorful sign announcing the entrance to its shops and division point at Hamlet, North Carolina in 1967. Warren Calloway photo.

At A Glance

Headquarters
Norfolk, Virginia
States Served
Virginia, North Carolina, South Carolina, Georgia, Alabama, Florida
Dates Of Operation
September 4, 1834 - June 30, 1967
Formation Date
July 1, 1900
Genesis
Portsmouth & Roanoke Rail Road (March 8, 1832)
Route Miles
4,145.19 (1952)
Track Gauge
4 Feet, 8 ½ Inches
Principal Lines

Richmond, Virginia - Jacksonville - Homestead, Florida

Coleman - St. Petersburg, Florida

Hamlet, North Carolina - Charleston, South Carolina - Savannah, Georgia

Norlina, North Carolina - Norfolk, Virginia

Hamlet - Birmingham

Savannah - Montgomery

Baldwin - Chattahoochee, Florida

Baldwin - Gross, Florida

Waldo - Sulphur Springs, Florida

Plant City - Fort Myers, Florida

Durant - Venice, Florida

Hull - Port Boca Grande, Florida

Valrico - West Lake Wales, Florida

Coleman - West Lake Wales - Miami

Diesel Locomotive Fleet (1963)
531
Rolling Stock (1963)

Freight Cars: 27,560

Passenger Cars: 446

Slogan
Through The Heart Of The South
Reporting Mark
SAL
Successor
Seaboard Coast Line

In Sam Appleby, Jr.'s article, "Throughout The Heart Of The South" from the February, 1949 issue of Trains Magazine, the first segment to feature CTC was the Richmond Division completed in 1941.  

Prior to decade's end CTC had been installed as far south as Raleigh and by 1965 was covering close to 1,700 miles of the SAL's network.  

The railroad continued its modernization program by retiring its steam fleet completely in 1952.  It was never as wealthy as the Coast Line and as such did not maintain a similar high-speed, double-tracked main line to Florida.  Nevertheless, by the 1960's it was one of the South's premier Class I systems.  B

y its latter years the Seaboard had quite a diverse freight traffic base which included agriculture, aggregates, cement, perishables, and iron ore. It likewise was one of the first to champion the trailer-on-flat-car (TOFC) concept in 1950.  

The Seaboard also had an extensive and popular passenger train fleet.  In addition to the aforementioned Meteor other famous trains included the Orange Blossom Special (also known as the OBS), PalmlandSuwanee River Special, and Silver Star.  

182816421785918757185915689268927900988.jpgSeaboard Air Line F3A #4027 and GP9 #1972 at Hialeah, Florida during September of 1963. Warren Calloway photo.

Passenger Trains

Cotton Blossom: (Washington - Atlanta)

Gulf Wind: (Jacksonville - New Orleans)

New York-Florida Limited: (New York - Miami/St. Petersburg)

Orange Blossom Special: (New York - Miami)

Palmland: (New York - Tampa/Miami/Boca Grande)

Silver Comet: (New York/Portsmouth - Birmingham)

Silver Meteor: (New York - Miami/St. Petersburg/Venice/Fort Meyers)

Silver Star: (New York - Miami/St. Petersburg/Venice/Boca Grande)

Sunland: (Washington/Portsmouth - Miami/Venice)

Suwanee River Special: (Cincinnati - Florida)

Tidewater:  (Raleigh/Norlina, North Carolina - Portsmouth, Virginia)

958476171561782698861270909.jpgA trio of new GP40s lead a string of trailers southbound out of Hermitage Yard in Richmond, Virginia as the train approaches Hermitage Road during the spring of 1967. American-Rails.com collection.

Because the Floridian market remained strong through the 1960's the Seaboard, like the Coast Line, posted strong ridership during an era when most other carriers were significantly reducing services.

These numbers remained strong through the Seaboard Coast Line years until Amtrak took over on May 1, 1971.  Because of this and the markets served some of SAL's trains survived under the new carrier (Silver Meteor and Silver Star). 

In 1958 the Seaboard and Atlantic Coast Line began studying the possibility of merger, realizing a marriage could reduce expenses by combining lines and terminals since the railroads served many of the same places. 

191827581275981038927680960977.jpgSeaboard Air Line E8As with Train #3 in Raleigh, North Carolina, circa 1965. Warren Calloway photo.

Diesel Roster

American Locomotive Company

Model Type Road Number Date Built Quantity
RS11100-109196010
C420110-1361965-196627
S1120119411
S21403-1405, 1425-14341942-194613
S41482-1491195310
RSC21500-15311947-194932
RSC31532-15431950-195112
RS21600-16281949-195029
RS31629-16841950-195256

Baldwin Locomotive Works

Model Type Road Number Date Built Quantity
VO-660120219411
VO-10001400-14161941-194517
DS-4-4-10001417-1424, 1435-14611946-195135
S121462-1465, 1476-14811952-195310
DR-6-4-1500 (Babyface)2700-27021947-19483
DR-12-8-3000 (Centipede)4500-45131947-194814

Electro-Motive Division

Model Type Road Number Date Built Quantity
GP18400-409196010
GP30500-5341962-196335
GP35535-544196510
GP40600-6501966-196751
SDP351100-1119196420
SW1120019391
NW21406-141219427
GP71700-1711, 1730-18221950-1952105
GP91900-1929, 1954-19791955-195956
E4A3000-30131938-193914
E4B3100-31041938-19395
E6A3014-30161940-19413
E7A3017-30481945-194932
E7B3105-310719483
E8A3049-30591950-195211
E9A306019631
FTA4000-40211942-194422
FTB4100-41211942-194422
F3A4022-4032194811

General Electric

Model Type Road Number Date Built Quantity
U30B800-814196715
920934761653178910yg1y679-89.jpgSeaboard Air Line 2-8-2 #446 is seen here in service, possibly in the Carolinas, during the 1940s. Ed Olsen photo. American-Rails.com collection.

Steam Roster

The Seaboard Air Line's slogan "Through The Heart Of The South" was not just a catchy advertisement.  As one of the big three Class 1 systems in the region it truly did serve most of the southeast. 

Despite its eastern seaboard location, the SAL's main line ran through the rolling hills of the Carolina Piedmont as well as the southern tip of the Appalachian Mountains to reach Atlanta as well Montgomery and Birmingham, Alabama.

As a result, the railroad did operate small fleets of larger wheel arrangements like the 2-8-8-2 and 2-6-6-4 for fast freight service between Hamlet and Richmond, as well as 2-10-0s (another fast freight engine operating between Montgomery-Savannah and Montgomery-Bainbridge), and 2-10-2s (Hamlet-Charlotte-Rutherfordton).

Generally speaking, the SAL utilized 2-8-0s and 2-8-2s for freight service and 4-6-0s, 4-6-2s, and 4-8-2s for passenger service.  The railroad officially recognized 1953 as the year steam ended in main line service although George Drury notes in his book, "Guide To North American Steam Locomotives," that a lone 0-4-0T continued to handle switching work along the street trackage in Columbus, Georgia until 1959.

195827361275981816008718078.jpgSeaboard Air Line 2-6-6-4 #2503 (R-1) assists a pair of FT's in freight service, circa 1945. No location provided. These steamers were later sold to the B&O in 1947. Ed Olsen photo. American-Rails.com collection.

Switchers

Wheel Arrangement Class Road Numbers Quantity Builder Completion Date Retirement Date Notes
0-6-0 No Class 123 1 Richmond (Alco) 1900 Sold in 1917. ex-Georgetown & Western
0-6-0 No Class 125 1 PRR 1903 1930 ex-Jefferson Construction Co.
0-4-0 No Class 468 1 Baldwin 1901 1917 ex-Georgetown & Western
0-4-0T No Class 1002 1 Baldwin 1912 1936 -
0-4-0T No Class 1003 1 Baldwin 1913 1936 -
0-4-2T No Class 1000 1 Porter 1900 1914 ex-Columbia Belt Line
0-4-0T No Class 1001 1 Baldwin 1936 1959 -
0-6-0 No Class 1000, 1001 2 Baldwin 1907 1930 ex-Georgia, Florida & Alabama and ex-Tampa Northern Railroad
0-6-0 No Class 1026 1 Baldwin 1915 1937 ex-Carolina, Atlantic & Western
0-6-0 F-2 1016-1020 5 Rhode Island (Alco) 1900 1935 -
0-6-0 F-3 1006-1009 4 Pittsburgh (Alco) 1900 1930 -
0-6-0 F-4 1010-1015 6 Pittsburgh 1901 1930 -
0-6-0 F-5 1090-1099 10 Cooke (Alco) 1918 1952 -
0-6-0 F-7 1101-1150 50 Baldwin 1927-1928 1953 -
0-6-0 L-5 1030-1059 30 Baldwin 1907-1913 -1952 -
0-8-0 F-9 1175-1179 5 Pittsburgh 1904-1905 -1949 ex-Elgin, Joliet & Eastern, former 2-8-0s

Freight Locomotives

Wheel Arrangement Class Road Numbers Quantity Builder Completion Date Retirement Date Notes
2-8-2 Q 300-318 19 Richmond 1914 -1952
2-8-2 Q-2 319-333 15 Schenectady 1922 -1952
2-8-2 Q-3 334-451 118 Schen, BLW, Richmond 1923-1931 -1955
2-8-2 Q-4 480-487 8 Rich, BLW 1912 1946-1950 Ex-Wabash
2-8-2 Q-1 490-499 10 Schenectady 1918 1950 USRA
2-10-0 (Russian Decapod) D 500-520 21 Richmond (Alco) 1918 1951 -
2-10-0 (Russian Decapod) D-1 521, 522 2 Baldwin 1918 1949, 1950 -
2-10-0 D-2 523-528 6 Baldwin 1924, 1926 1951-1953 ex-GF&A
2-10-0 D-3 529-536 8 Baldwin 1930 1952-1953 -
2-10-0 (Russian Decapod) D-4 540-546 7 Brook (Alco)s 1918 1949-1950 -n
2-10-0 (Russian Decapod) D-5 547-550 4 Baldwin, Richmond (Alco), Brooks (Alco) 1918 1949-1951 -
2-8-0 H-1 900-919 20 Baldwin 1911 -1950
2-8-0 920-924 5 Baldwin 1906-1913 1946, 1949 Ex-GF&A 200-204
2-8-0 925, 926 2 Baldwin 1910, 1911 1933, 1936 Ex-CH&N 17, 18
2-8-0 927, 928 2 Richmond 1913 1949, 1941 Ex-CH&N 50, 51
2-8-0 929-932 4 Baldwin 1920 1950-1951 Ex-CH&N 71-74
2-8-0 H-2 933-937 5 Schenectady 1910-1912 1948-1949 Ex-Chicago & North Western
2-8-0 954, 955 2 Baldwin 1900 1916 Ex-Georgetown & Western
2-8-0 L-3 970-989 20 Richmond 1902-1903 -1935
2-8-0 H 990-999 10 Baldwin 1904 -1938
2-10-2 B 2400-2409 10 Baldwin 1918 1948-1950 -
2-10-2 B-1 2485-2499 15 Baldwin 1919 1950-1953 -

Passenger Locomotives

Wheel Arrangement Class Road Numbers Quantity Builder Completion Date Retirement Date Notes
4-4-0 101 101 1 Baldwin 1905 1936 ex-GF&A
4-4-0 103 103 1 Baldwin 1913 1933 ex-Charlotte Harbor & Northern
4-4-0 122 122 1 Baldwin 1901 1924 ex-Georgetown & Western
4-4-0 166 166 1 Baldwin 1914 1936 ex-CA&W
4-4-0 G-1 180-184 5 Rhode Island (Alco) 1900 1903 -
4-4-0 G-2 185-199 15 Baldwin 1900 1933 -
4-8-2 M 200-214 15 Richmond (Alco), Schenectady (Alco) 1914, 1917 1950 -
4-8-2 M-1 215-224 10 Schenectady (Alco) 1922 1952 -
4-8-2 M-2 235-270 36 Baldwin 1924-1926 1954 -
4-6-0 I-5 581 1 Richmond (Alco) 1900 1916 -
4-6-0 L-2 600-649 49 Richmond (Alco), Baldwin 1902-1907 1936-1950 -
4-6-0 L-4-S 650, 651, 655-657, 660-664 10 Baldwin 1910 1952 Rebuilt in 1933 from Class K 4-6-0s.
4-6-0 L-2-S 652-654, 659 4 Baldwin 1910 1950 Rebuilt in 1933 from Class K 4-6-0s.
4-6-0 K 658 1 Baldwin 1910 1940 -
4-6-0 I-12 671-680 10 Baldwin 1909-1913 1936-1948 ex-CA&W
4-6-0 I-13 681-683 3 Baldwin 1915 1946 ex-CA&W
4-6-0 684-688 5 Baldwin 1901-1906 1930, 1936 ex-GF&A
4-6-0 689 1 Baldwin 1910 1934 ex-CH&N
4-6-0 L-4 690, 692 2 Baldwin 1907 1930 ex-Tampa Northern Railroad
4-6-0 17 693-695 3 Baldwin 1914 1936, 1933 ex-Tampa & Gulf Coast
4-6-2 P-1 800-849 50 Baldwin, Richmond (Alco) 1912-1913 1952 -
4-6-2 P 851-870 20 Richmond (Alco), Baldwin 1911-1913 1951 -
4-6-2 P-4 871-880 10 Baldwin 1909, 1911 1952 -
4-6-0 I-5 1575-1599 24 Richmond (Alco) 1900-1901 1928-1933 -

Articulated Designs

Wheel Arrangement Class Road Numbers Quantity Builder Completion Date Retirement Date Notes
2-8-8-2 A 500-515 16 Richmond 1917-1918 Sold to the B&O in 1920. -
2-6-6-4 R-1 2500-2504 5 Baldwin 1935 Sold to the B&O in 1947. -
2-6-6-4 R-2 2505-2509 5 Baldwin 1937 Sold to the B&O in 1947. -
6210858011884uwh7yt19848010717.jpgA trio of Seaboard's new GP40s, nicknamed "Jolly Green Giants" (thanks to their light green livery), lead a manifest through Cary, North Carolina in 1966. Warren Calloway photo.

Seaboard Coast Line

While the SAL and ACL were competitors, similar to the Pennsylvania and New York Central that merged during the same period, their planning would pay off through the new Seaboard Coast Line formed on July 1, 1967.

Thanks to the ACL's many holdings SCL controlled several other profitable systems including the Clinchfield, Louisville & Nashville, and West Point Route.  The group went on to form the new marketing name known as "The Family Lines."  

The moniker held no corporate power until December 29, 1982 when they were formally merged into the Seaboard System.  The holding company, CSX Corporation, had been created on November 1, 1980 to eventually join the Seaboard roads and Chessie System lines into one giant conglomerate.  

That railroad was formed on July 1, 1986 when CSX Transportation (CSXT) was born.  It immediately absorbed the Seaboard System predecessors while the Chessie's subsidiaries, B&O and Chesapeake & Ohio, disappeared a year later in 1987 (the Western Maryland had vanished in 1983).

Public Timetables (August, 1952)

2990273542364263723573684939878.jpg
5426342734823592905012823626357687.jpg
102390123412341243624832583978.jpg
019236124341234512641785823697989.jpg
912903812351243142353268878.jpg
0176351thuu2ji9209708.jpg
81723690018571n1n79926.jpg
6628j1001977j1i87.jpg
77100872771gg1h177727.jpg
20087h2ni2o6276217.jpg
24939876532ghh1oo20888.jpg
999182762u2nn1o2867.jpg
316620028877h1bi186796.jpg
23498878623hh101088673k7.jpg
772977561jo001888207.jpg
200886782y1hi008808.jpg
07665326yj19nv2g2798807.jpg
982767h1h2o2902808.jpg

Recent Articles

  1. Ohio Pizza Train Rides

    Feb 15, 26 10:59 AM

    9712372163767236479751827.jpg
    Among Lebanon Mason & Monroe Railroad's easiest “yes” experiences for families is the Family Pizza Train—a relaxed, 90-minute ride where dinner is served right at your seat, with the countryside slidi…

    Read More

  2. Wisconsin Pizza Train Rides

    Feb 15, 26 10:57 AM

    1987261253416277892387976354.jpg
    Among Wisconsin Great Northern's lineup, one trip stands out as a simple, crowd-pleasing “starter” ride for kids and first-timers: the Family Pizza Train—two hours of Northwoods views, a stop on a tal…

    Read More

  3. Illinois "Pizza" Train Rides

    Feb 15, 26 10:55 AM

    1927716235125768986677.jpg
    For both residents and visitors looking to indulge in pizza while enjoying the state's picturesque landscapes, the concept of pizza train rides offers a uniquely delightful experience.

    Read More

  4. Tennessee's ~ Murder Mystery ~ Dinner Train Rides

    Feb 15, 26 10:50 AM

    8676443234543254657.jpg
    Amidst the rolling hills and scenic landscapes of Tennessee, an exhilarating and interactive experience awaits those with a taste for mystery and intrigue.

    Read More

  5. California's ~ Murder Mystery ~ Dinner Train Rides

    Feb 15, 26 10:48 AM

    9753dxw454766754w3qds54465.jpg
    When it comes to experiencing the allure of crime-solving sprinkled with delicious dining, California's murder mystery dinner train rides have carved a niche for themselves among both locals and touri…

    Read More

  6. Virginia's Dinner Train Rides In Staunton!

    Feb 15, 26 10:46 AM

    91287417245612268989789897.jpg
    If you’ve ever wished you could pair a classic scenic train ride with a genuinely satisfying meal—served at your table while the countryside rolls by—the Virginia Scenic Railway was built for you.

    Read More

  7. New Hampshire's Dinner Train Rides In N. Conway

    Feb 15, 26 10:45 AM

    2937428358237827896897269866.jpg
    Tucked into the heart of New Hampshire’s Mount Washington Valley, the Conway Scenic Railroad is one of New England’s most beloved heritage railways.

    Read More

  8. Union Pacific 4014 Begins Coast-To-Coast Tour

    Feb 15, 26 12:30 AM

    72177126351267812485392666.jpg
    Union Pacific’s legendary 4-8-8-4 “Big Boy” No. 4014 is scheduled to return to the main line in a big way this spring, kicking off the railroad’s first-ever coast-to-coast steam tour as part of a broa…

    Read More

  9. Amtrak Introduces The Cascades Airo Trainset

    Feb 15, 26 12:11 AM

    17i9231724721812753892832679860677.jpeg
    Amtrak pulled the curtain back this month on the first trainset in its forthcoming Airo fleet, using Union Station as a stage to preview what the railroad says is a major step forward in comfort, acce…

    Read More

  10. Nevada Northern Railway 2-8-0 81 Returns

    Feb 14, 26 11:54 PM

    87123612534678572994366.jpg
    The Nevada Northern Railway Museum has successfully fired its Baldwin-built 2-8-0 No. 81 after a lengthy outage and intensive mechanical work, a major milestone that sets the stage for the locomotive…

    Read More

  11. Metrolink F59PH 851 Preserved In Fullerton, CA

    Feb 14, 26 11:41 PM

    1238172316243721895023677.jpg
    Metrolink has donated locomotive No. 851—its first rostered unit—to the Fullerton Train Museum, where it will be displayed and interpreted as a cornerstone artifact from the region’s modern passenger…

    Read More

  12. Oregon's Dinner Train Rides Near Mt. Hood!

    Feb 14, 26 09:16 AM

    91782481258158276969866.jpg
    The Mt. Hood Railroad is the moving part of that postcard—a century-old short line that began as a working railroad.

    Read More

  13. Maryland's Dinner Train Rides At WMSR!

    Feb 14, 26 09:15 AM

    53474584775_1617e2c250_k.jpg
    The Western Maryland Scenic Railroad (WMSR) has become one of the Mid-Atlantic’s signature heritage operations—equal parts mountain railroad, living museum, and “special-occasion” night out.

    Read More

  14. Colorado Wild West Train Rides

    Feb 14, 26 09:13 AM

    9187231624312435516287966.jpg
    If there’s one weekend (or two) at the Colorado Railroad Museum that captures that “living history” spirit better than almost anything else, it’s Wild West Days.

    Read More

  15. South Dakota Beer Tasting Train Rides

    Feb 14, 26 09:11 AM

    629317291_4031174847174422_8638402801335748980_n.jpg
    While the 1880 Train's regular runs are a treat in any season, the Oktoberfest Express adds an extra layer of fun: German-inspired food, seasonal beer, and live polka set against the sound and spectac…

    Read More

  16. Kentucky Wild West Train Rides

    Feb 14, 26 09:10 AM

    09198621551461278529836906.jpg
    One of KRM’s most crowd-pleasing themed events is “The Outlaw Express,” a Wild West train robbery ride built around family-friendly entertainment and a good cause.

    Read More

  17. Pennsylvania "Wild West" Train Rides

    Feb 14, 26 09:08 AM

    981263551626531274982357697.jpg
    The Keystone State is home to a variety of historical attractions, but few experiences can rival the excitement and nostalgia of a Wild West train ride.

    Read More

  18. Indiana "Wild West" Train Rides

    Feb 14, 26 09:06 AM

    912831755451261859828976677.jpg
    Indiana offers a unique opportunity to experience the thrill of the Wild West through its captivating train rides.

    Read More

  19. B&O Observation "Washington" Cosmetically Restored

    Feb 14, 26 12:25 AM

    104856jwu264t49274336454483.jpg
    Visitors to the B&O Railroad Museum will soon be able to step into a freshly revived slice of postwar rail luxury: Baltimore & Ohio No. 3316, the observation-tavern car Washington.

    Read More

  20. Southern 2-8-2 4501 Returns To Classic Green

    Feb 14, 26 12:24 AM

    981273162536512468123872666.jpg
    Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum officials announced that Southern Railway steam locomotive No. 4501—the museum’s flagship 2-8-2 Mikado—will reappear from its annual inspection wearing the classic Sou…

    Read More

  21. Illinois Murder Mystery Dinner Train Rides

    Feb 13, 26 12:04 PM

    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

  22. Vermont ~ Murder Mystery ~ Dinner Train Rides

    Feb 13, 26 12:00 PM

    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

  23. Missouri Ice Cream Tasting Train Rides

    Feb 13, 26 11:47 AM

    978123716523414872580967987.jpg
    Among the Iron Mountain Railway's warm-weather offerings, the Ice Cream Express stands out as a perfect “easy yes” outing: a short road trip, a real train ride, and a built-in treat that turns the who…

    Read More

  24. Florida "Wild West" Train Rides

    Feb 13, 26 09:53 AM

    9187237125315234517658958766.jpg
    This article delves into wild west rides throughout Florida, the historical context surrounding them, and their undeniable charm.

    Read More

  25. West Virginia "Wild West" Train Rides

    Feb 13, 26 09:49 AM

    237162512646758896962346.jpg
    While D&GV is known for several different excursions across the region, one of the most entertaining rides on its calendar is the Greenbrier Express Wild West Special.

    Read More

  26. Alabama "Wild West" Train Rides

    Feb 13, 26 09:47 AM

    092834273412564512547658767.jpg
    Although Alabama isn't the traditional setting for Wild West tales, the state provides its own flavor of historic rail adventures that draw enthusiasts year-round.

    Read More

  27. Michigan "Wild West" Train Rides

    Feb 13, 26 09:46 AM

    761246142512879712631527815966.jpg
    While the term "wild west" often conjures up images of dusty plains and expansive deserts, Michigan offers its own unique take on this thrilling period of history.

    Read More

  28. Grand Trunk Western 4-6-2 No. 5629

    Feb 13, 26 12:10 AM

    630467034_4034415733517000_1788409808157530115_n.jpg
    Included here is a detailed look at 5629’s build date and design, key specifications, revenue career on the Grand Trunk Western, its surprisingly active excursion life under private ownership, and its…

    Read More

  29. New York Easter Train Rides

    Feb 12, 26 01:19 PM

    55068823856_10cceb0f26_k.jpg
    New York is home to several Easter-themed train rides including the Adirondack Railroad, Catskill Mountain Railroad, and a few others!

    Read More

  30. Missouri Easter Train Rides

    Feb 12, 26 01:13 PM

    12712742175178958926872389778.jpg
    The beautiful state of Missouri is home to a handful of heritage railroads although only one provides an Easter-themed train ride. Learn more about this event here.

    Read More

  31. Arizona's Wild West Train Rides

    Feb 12, 26 01:05 PM

    5823206833_9100f0381d_o.jpg
    Let's delve into the captivating world of Arizona's Wild West train adventures, currently offered at the popular Grand Canyon Railway.

    Read More

  32. Missouri's Wild West Train Rides

    Feb 12, 26 12:49 PM

    917231623465124512865798689078.jpg
    In Missouri, a state rich in history and natural beauty, you can experience the thrill of a bygone era through the scenic and immersive Wild West train rides.

    Read More

  33. Maine's Tea Tasting Train Rides

    Feb 12, 26 12:42 PM

    8246126466125635126785897.jpg
    Tea trains aboard the historic WW&F Railway Museum promises to transport you not just through the picturesque landscapes of Maine, but also back to a simpler time.

    Read More

  34. Pennsylvania Tea Tasting Train Rides

    Feb 12, 26 12:09 PM

    72365512531524871258968978.jpg
    In this article, we explore some of the most enchanting tea train rides in Pennsylvania, currently offered at the historic Strasburg Rail Road.

    Read More

  35. Nevada St. Patrick's Day Train Rides

    Feb 12, 26 11:39 AM

    4947077973_b566bd1d6d_o.jpg
    Today, restored segments of the “Queen of the Short Lines” host scenic excursions and special events that blend living history with pure entertainment—none more delightfully suspenseful than the Emera…

    Read More

  36. Minnesota Ice Cream Tasting Train Rides

    Feb 12, 26 10:22 AM

    9182734162534125357889678.jpg
    Among MTM’s most family-friendly excursions is a summertime classic: the Dresser Ice Cream Train (often listed as the Osceola/Dresser Ice Cream Train).

    Read More

  37. Wisconsin's Wild West Train Rides

    Feb 11, 26 10:54 PM

    531388850_18407930308118711_3245345212765650427_n.jpg
    Through a unique blend of interactive entertainment and historical reverence, Wisconsin offers a captivating glimpse into the past with its Wild West train rides.

    Read More

  38. Georgia's Wild West Train Rides

    Feb 11, 26 10:44 PM

    12i4712845151292186590268797097877.jpg
    Nestled within its lush hills and historic towns, the Peach State offers unforgettable train rides that channel the spirit of the Wild West.

    Read More

  39. North Carolina's Wild West Train Rides

    Feb 11, 26 02:36 PM

    29812874312412586987898.jpg
    North Carolina, a state known for its diverse landscapes ranging from serene beaches to majestic mountains, offers a unique blend of history and adventure through its Wild West train rides.

    Read More

  40. South Carolina's Dinner Train Rides

    Feb 11, 26 02:16 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

  41. Rhode Island's Dinner Train Rides

    Feb 11, 26 02:08 PM

    9182471624651465187869890778.jpg
    Despite its small size, Rhode Island is home to one popular dinner train experience where guests can enjoy the breathtaking views of Aquidneck Island.

    Read More

  42. New York Tea Tasting Train Rides

    Feb 11, 26 01:56 PM

    1948124612541656859798789.jpg
    Tea train rides provide not only a picturesque journey through some of New York's most scenic landscapes but also present travelers with a delightful opportunity to indulge in an assortment of teas.

    Read More

  43. California Tea Tasting Train Rides

    Feb 11, 26 01:37 PM

    1928421741625457892689078908.jpg
    In California you can enjoy a quiet tea train experience aboard the Napa Valley Wine Train, which offers an afternoon tea service.

    Read More

  44. Tennessee Tea Tasting Train Rides

    Feb 11, 26 01:19 PM

    2594255_orig.jpg
    If you’re looking for a Chattanooga outing that feels equal parts special occasion and time-travel, the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum (TVRM) has a surprisingly elegant answer: The Homefront Tea Roo…

    Read More

  45. Maine Ice Cream Tasting Train Rides

    Feb 11, 26 11:58 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

  46. North Carolina Ice Cream Tasting Train Rides

    Feb 11, 26 11:06 AM

    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

  47. Pennsylvania "Wild West" Train Rides

    Feb 10, 26 12:04 PM

    98ge43234656u7ugf2345.jpg
    The Keystone State is home to a variety of historical attractions, but few experiences can rival the excitement and nostalgia of a Wild West train ride.

    Read More

  48. Ohio "Wild West" Train Rides

    Feb 10, 26 11:34 AM

    09643xre435676890b678.jpg
    For those enamored with tales of the Old West, Ohio's railroad experiences offer a unique blend of history, adventure, and natural beauty.

    Read More

  49. New York "Wild West" Train Rides

    Feb 10, 26 11:23 AM

    55067982572_ac1973f6cf_k.jpg
    Join us as we explore wild west train rides in New York, bringing history to life and offering a memorable escape to another era.

    Read More

  50. New Mexico Murder Mystery Train Rides

    Feb 10, 26 11:12 AM

    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