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.
Its a extremely nice looking paint job. However, why have it out and around before next year as like most heritage units, after few weeks they get looking grundgy and the wash rack is long forgotten. Its a shame given the extra costs to paint said units. After spending time/money the RRs should keep them looking spiffy, or don’t do ’em at all.
Well, bring on the copycats. One railroad did heritage units then a few more followed suit. It will probably be the same with this. The PR departments dont want to be outdone by a competitor.
I’d love to see CSX replicate the paint scheme from its predecessor Seaboard Coast Line’s U36B No. 1776.
David I have the HO model off that one. I’ll have to bring it out next year.
Great lookin’ locomotive! I look forward to seeing much more patriotism on the rails as 2026 approaches… and that includes the Canadian railroads that do business in the USA, too. 😉
I wonder how many other railroads will follow, like 1976, with patriotic painted locomotives?
Beautiful locomotive!!!! Great job W&LE!
Great looking locomotive.
A genuinely gorgeous loco… Railfans can’t wait to see this unit in service.
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This is an EMD SD40-2, built in December 1979.
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