CPKC 250th anniversary locomotive: KCS 1776 rolls out

CPKC 250th anniversary locomotive KCS Tier 4 ET44AC 1776 was unveiled March 2, as noted by CPKC and as reported by Railfan. It is a special unit tied to the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence.

Details on the CPKC 250th anniversary locomotive and its markings

Meanwhile, the locomotive was built by Wabtec in Fort Worth, Texas. At the same time, although it is lettered for CPKC, it carries KCS reporting marks beneath the cab window because “CPKC” is not an official reporting mark. CPKC officials also noted that most of the railroad’s newer Tier 4 units have arrived with CP reporting marks.

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KCS Tier 4 ET44AC 1776 is first of five Semiquincentennial units

Also, CPKC officials said KCS 1776 is expected to be the first of five locomotives planned to celebrate the Semiquincentennial.

“This locomotive, built and painted in Fort Worth, Texas, honors the remarkable and proud history of America as we prepare to mark the nation’s 250th anniversary,” said Keith Creel, CPKC President and Chief Executive Officer. “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.”

How other railroads are approaching 250th anniversary paint plans?

Separately, Union Pacific and Canadian National have either painted or announced plans to paint engines to celebrate the anniversary, but neither railroad has actually released one. Still, Norfolk Southern and BNSF Railway have both been mum about their plans to paint special units, as Trains.com notes. For example, numerous short lines and regionals have painted engines in advance of the anniversary.

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