Norfolk Southern, AITX mark America's 250th with custom wraps, public events

Rail companies are marking the United States' 250th anniversary with patriotic-themed wraps on their locomotives, tours of historic rolling stock and public events.

Norfolk Southern Railway has debuted six custom locomotive designs, including tributes to the Liberty Bell, the Statue of Liberty and the bald eagle. The company will also host Union Pacific Railroad’s Big Boy No. 4014 — the world’s largest operating steam locomotive — for the engine’s first Northeast tour.

The locomotives and four historic business cars, including a restored Pullman car once used by President Franklin Roosevelt, will stop for public events at multiple locations along the route in June and July.

“Railroads helped build this nation by connecting communities, powering industry, and creating opportunity across generations,” said NS President and CEO Mark George. “As America approaches its 250th anniversary, Norfolk Southern’s new locomotive series and the historic Big Boy journey across our network, honor that legacy while spotlighting the employees, infrastructure, and innovation that continue driving America forward today.”

Meanwhile, American Industrial Transport Inc. (AITX) unveiled their “America 250,” a special-edition covered hopper rail car, on April 14. The rail car’s wrap honors the nation’s founding as well as the history of freight rail and its more than 150 years of supporting American commerce. 

At the ceremony, AITX CEO Peter Appel said, “Freight rail has helped America grow, connecting cities, fueling industry and delivering what we need. The rail car in front of us is not just a piece of equipment; it is a symbol of progress and trust. As it travels across the country, it carries the spirit, effort and reliability of everyone who keeps America moving.”

The AITX “America 250” rail car is currently in service supporting soybean processing operations for AG Processing Inc.