CN, CPKC unveil locomotives to commemorate U.S. 250th

CN and CPKC this week unveiled locomotives that will be used this year to commemorate the United States' 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence.

CN today launched its America250 celebrations with the unveiling of two locomotives painted to represent the dual pillars of the American story: independence and innovation. As they travel across CN’s U.S. rail network, spanning from the Gulf Coast to the Midwest and into the Great Lakes region, the locomotives will carry not only freight, but also the message of America250 to communities across the country, CN officials said in a press release.

The first locomotive, identified with the number 1776, features a screaming bald eagle, a long-standing symbol of American independence, strength and freedom, CN officials said. The second locomotive, which can be viewed in a video via this link, is identified with the number 2026 and draws inspiration from the design of Air Force One to reflect American leadership in engineering and advanced technology. 

“America’s 250th anniversary is an opportunity to reflect on the ideals and vision that helped shape the United States of America and the innovation that continues to define it. At CN, we are proud to have played a vital role in the country’s past and are excited to continue connecting U.S. industries, communities and supply chains for generations to come," said CN President and CEO Tracy Robinson.

Meanwhile, CPKC yesterday unveiled locomotive KCS 1776, a new Tier 4 ET44AC unit from Wabtec Corp.’s plant in Fort Worth, Texas. It's the first of five such locomotives that will bear the commemorative America 250 livery, CPKC officials said in a press release.

The unit features Old Glory red and Old Glory blue colors as well as the logo of America250, the national nonpartisan organization established by Congress to lead the nation’s 250th anniversary celebrations. Other features include graphic representations of the Declaration of Independence opening phrase “In Congress” and the famous first words of the preamble to the U.S. Constitution, as well as 13 stars encircling the date July 4, 1776.

"As a U.S. Army veteran, I am proud to join my 6,000 fellow railroaders living and working across America in celebrating the contributions of all Americans throughout our history. Together, we join the nation in looking forward with vision and hope to the accomplishments of generations yet to come," said CPKC President and CEO Keith Creel.