BREWSTER, Ohio — The Wheeling & Lake Erie Railway has unveiled a red, white, and blue locomotive to commemorate the 250th anniversary of American independence in 2026.
In a social media post, the railroad says the design was inspired by Norfolk & Western’s bicentennial locomotive in 1976, but with “a bold Wheeling twist, including chevron striping and our signature flying letters.” Other details, according to the W&LE, include a brass bell, “raised letter” number boards, and a restored Leslie air horn. It says the design was specifically intended to ensure the full red, white, and blue color scheme is visible from the front, “so when it’s rolling down the tracks, you know the 1776 is coming.”
The SD40-2 is the former No. 6356, an ex-Union Pacific unit. It is currently receiving upgrades including a new prime mover before entering service in late July or early August.
— Updated June 24 at 12:55 p.m. CT with additional details.
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