By Railfan & Railroad Staff

The B&O Railroad Museum announced last week that it would cosmetically restore Reading Company T-1 4-8-4 2101 to its American Freedom Train appearance ahead of the 250th anniversary of the United States in 2026. Over the weekend, the locomotive was moved from its long-time display site to the museum’s restoration shop. 

Reading 2101 was built in 1923 from an older 2-8-0 locomotive. In the late 1950s, it was used as a backup locomotive for the iconic “Iron Horse Ramblers” excursions before being retired. In 1975, it was restored to service to haul the American Freedom Train throughout the eastern United States. Later it led the Chessie Steam Special before a roundhouse fire forced its retirement and it was put on a display in Baltimore. 

For decades the locomotive has worn its American Freedom Train appearance and number (No. 1), but the elements have taken a toll on the locomotive. The locomotive is expected to be restored cosmetically before 2026. 

The weekend move wasn’t without incident. At one point it appeared as if the locomotive hit a passenger car that was too close to the big locomotive on another track. The incident was live-streamed online but if there was any damage it was minor. 

To donate to the restoration, visit the B&O Railroad Museum website. 

Editor’s Note: This story has been updated to note that Reading 2101 was not used in excursion service in the late 1950s.