In preparation for the American Bicentennial in 1976, the American Freedom
Train Foundation inaugurated a 26-car train which would display American
historical treasures throughout the United States. To prepare for the
actual event, a special train dubbed the “Preamble Express” ran the routes
planned for the event. Union Pacific E-9 #951 (currently used on the UP’s
executive train) was selected to head the consist . . . only a few cars with a
planning crew to study logistical support, track conditions, etc.
The Freedom Train itself was powered by several steam locomotives. These
included Reading 4-8-4 #2101 (dubbed “America” #1), Texas & Pacific 2-10-4
#610, and Southern Pacific 4-8-4 Daylight #4449. All locomotives and cars
were decorated appropriately for America’s birthday celebration.
K & I Member Ed Brennan captured the essence of the power when locomotives #951 and #1
were posed in Bison Springs on his L&N Blackberry Branch layout.
