APRIL 2026: We mark the 50th anniversary of Conrail’s creation with special features exploring the railroad’s lasting impact. Discover how Conrail revitalized the Boston & Albany into a key corridor for New England intermodal traffic. Victor Hand concludes his three-part series on the United States Railroad Association and the work that paved the way for Conrail’s launch. Brock Kerchner and Wes Reminder revisit the glory days of the Conrail business train, while Managing Editor Otto Vondrak examines the evolution of Conrail’s logos and graphic design. All this and more in the April issue of Railfan & Railroad!
STB to Metra, UP: Keep Talking

STB to Metra, UP: Keep Talking

Metra assumed operating responsibilities on UP’s three Chicago-area commuter lines a year ago but hasn’t been able to come up with a price to pay the freight road.


UP ‘Big Boy’ to Visit East Coast

UP ‘Big Boy’ to Visit East Coast

Union Pacific announced that 4-8-8-4 “Big Boy” 4014 would travel to Philadelphia to celebrate the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence.


Conrail’s Boston Line

Conrail’s Boston Line

Conrail transformed the historic Boston & Albany route over the Berkshires into a vital link for New England traffic.


Countdown to ConRail: Part 3

Countdown to ConRail: Part 3

The conclusion of the United States Railroad Association story, leading up to conveyance to Conrail on April 1, 1976.


Photo Line: A Preview of CRP&A’s Conversations 2026

Photo Line: A Preview of CRP&A’s Conversations 2026

The Center for Railroad Photography & Art’s annual conference visits Indianapolis from April 24 to 26, featuring yet another great lineup of railroad image makers.


Camera Bag: An Update on Drones and Remote ID

Camera Bag: An Update on Drones and Remote ID

Starting this year, it will be illegal to fly a drone that weighs more than 250 grams unless it has been outfitted with broadcasting equipment.


Conrail’s Legacy 50 Years Later

Conrail’s Legacy 50 Years Later

To breed success, Conrail was unsentimental, rationalizing the excesses of a romantic, yet often imprudent, past.


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