Northern Central Railways acquires historic locomotive

The Northern Central Railway of York (NCR) in Pennsylvania is adding a GE 80-ton diesel locomotive to its collection of historic trains used for education and entertainment. 

NCR purchased the train from McHugh Locomotive & Equipment, the locomotive was previously remanufactured for the U.S. Army and used at the Letterkenny Army Depot in Chambersburg, Pennsylvania.

GE 80-tons were produced in the 1940s through the end of World War II, according to the Lake Shore Railway historical society, which owns a similar 80-ton locomotive. 

NCR is a nonprofit, educational organization, located in New Freedom, Pennsylvania providing rail-based, multigenerational entertainment experiences and education.

“As part of our strategic growth plan, we have been considering buying another train for some time," said NCR Executive Director Ashley Zimmerman in a press release. "The GE 80-ton diesel locomotive, which we have numbered 32, will allow us to continue offering fun and memorable experiences.”

In addition to the GE 80-ton diesel locomotive, the railroad owns an 1860s-replica steam locomotive, a Pennsylvania Railroad 1959 diesel engine and eight passenger cars.

Last week, McHugh Locomotive & Equipment delivered the locomotive from the Letterkenny Army Depot to Northern Central Railway. Ann and JC McHugh of McHugh Locomotive & Equipment donated a unique Hancock air whistle, which will be installed on the train.