STRASBURG, Pa. — RJD America LLC made early Fourth of July headlines with its recent acquisition of business car Pacific Spirit. Originally built by National Steel Car in 1959, and previously known as Bonaventure, this rare example of the M530-class design was part of the Canadian National Railway’s business fleet and was made available through Railway Excursion Management Co.
The car was recently delivered to the Strasburg Rail Road to undergo restoration, joining Chesapeake & Ohio No. 4-8-4 614 that arrived a month prior for its own overhaul [See “C&O No. 614 restoration to begin…” News Wire, June 9, 2025]. RJD America has pledged to balance historical fidelity with modern enhancements, ensuring that the car is both a preserved artifact and a functional piece of the collection. As the restoration progresses, plans are to host events unveiling the car’s new identity and its journey to readiness.
Jason Johnson, general manager of the group, said the company is “delighted and honored to welcome ‘Pacific Spirit’ into our growing fleet,” he said. The acquisition reflects RJD America’s mission to maintain and celebrate the rich legacy of rail travel.
RJD hinted at information on additional equipment, specifically support cars for No. 614 once returned to service, on the 4-8-4’s social media pages from the July 3 announcement regarding Pacific Spirit. More information, in addition to upcoming announcements and updates, can be found at rjdamerica.com and co614.com.
