The donation comes from the Bluewater Michigan Chapter of the National Railway Historical Society. As the chapter plans to dissolve this year, new locations are being found for the chapter’s rail equipment. President John Moore says, “I’m happy to return this car to its home rails.” The No. 6604 had been a fixture on the Bluewater chapter’s rail excursions during the past three decades. Most recently the No. 6604 has been in use at the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum in Chattanooga, Tenn.
The No. 6604 originally served as the rear car on one of Seaboard’s five daily New York City to Florida trains, such as the Silver Meteor and Silver Star. It was also used on the Silver Comet, running between Birmingham, Ala., and New York. Seaboard’s routes served North Carolinians passing through Raleigh, Southern Pines, Hamlet, and Monroe.
Executive Director Kelly Alexander says, “This will be a first-class passenger car aboard special event train rides like Brew & Choo, The Polar Express Train Ride, and Wine & Dine.” Alexander says special tours are also planned when the car is not in service.
