The Canadian Pacific Kansas City (CPKC) railway has introduced a commemorative locomotive to celebrate the upcoming 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence and the founding of the USA.
CPKC unveiled the first of five America 250 locomotives, featuring the colors Old Glory Red and Old Glory Blue, along with the America250 logo.
The locomotive, numbered 1776 and built by Wabtec Corporation in Fort Worth, Texas, displays graphics of the Declaration of Independence’s opening phrase “In Congress,” the first words of the U.S. Constitution’s Preamble, and 13 stars around the date July 4, 1776.
America250, the national nonpartisan organization established by Congress, leads the semiquincentennial celebrations.
“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,” Keith Creel, CPKC president and chief executive officer, said in a news release.
“America’s 250th anniversary is a moment to reflect on the industries and individuals who have helped build and connect our nation,” said Jen Condon, executive vice president at America250. “Freight rail has played a vital role in America’s growth and progress, and CPKC’s commemorative locomotive is a powerful tribute to that legacy as we approach this historic milestone.”
America250 aims to engage all Americans in commemorating the nation’s founding, honoring past contributions, and envisioning the future.
