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America 250: B&O Unlocked: America 250 Celebrate America’s Story—One Railcar at a Time
The B&O Railroad Museum’s annual Unlocked series returns—this year with a special tribute to America’s 250th anniversary. Each month, step inside a different piece of rail history and experience the stories that helped build a nation. In honor of this milestone, American Freedom Train No. 1 will be opened twice in 2026—January and July—offering a rare chance to celebrate the spirit of freedom and innovation that defines America’s rail legacy.
This year, you can expect a chance to step inside nine pieces and two newly restored fan-favorites!
To join us on this journey through history and save, purchase a B&O Membership to receive free admission for each collection piece. Don’t miss this opportunity to unlock the doors on these historic pieces!
American Freedom Train (AFT) No. 1:
Wednesday 7/15, Saturday 7/18, Sunday 7/19 (10:00 AM – 4:00 PM)
We are re-unlocking the AFT No.1 in honor of Independence Day! The cosmetically restored “T-Hog” was just placed on display in January of this year. If you missed your chance to see it then, now is the time to check it out!
The American Freedom Train toured the nation between April 1, 1975, and December 31, 1976, in celebration of the United States Bicentennial. During its 21-month journey, the train visited all 48 contiguous states and stopped at 138 cities to display artifacts and artworks related to American culture. Over 500 pieces of Americana were carried on the train, including Martin Luther King, Jr.’s robes and Judy Garland’s dress from The Wizard of Oz. The traveling exhibition was a cultural phenomenon that attracted 7 million people from around the nation.
Built by Balwin Locomotive Works in 1923, the AFT No. 1 (formerly Reading Railroad No. 2101) was used to pull the American Freedom Train during the eastern leg of its journey. Then, in 1977 and 1978, it was used to pull the Chessie Steam Special to celebrate the 150th anniversary of the American railroad.
We invite you to relive the excitement of the American Freedom Train this July, as the United States turns 250 years old!
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