Even as the Independence Day holiday wound down, several railroads were still showcasing Semiquincentennial rolling stock – including cabooses and freight cars.

The narrow-gauge East Broad Top Railroad rolled out caboose 27, painted in red, white, and blue, which took inspiration from the former nearby coal hauler Pittsburg & Shawmut Railroad. It entered service on July 3 and is expected to remain in America 250 colors through next season, when it will return to its original red scheme.

Built in East Broad Top’s shops in 1920, the caboose received thorough documentation and restoration, including replacement of exterior siding, a new roof, trim, and windows, the railroad said. Much of the work took place over the winter.

Photo Courtesy of Cooperstown & Charlotte Valley.

Tourist carrier Cooperstown & Charlotte Valley in New York painted Delaware & Hudson caboose 35707 red, white and blue as well. It started life as a boxcar and was rebuilt into a caboose in October 1942. To save on metal for the war effort, it was sheathed with wood instead of steel, the railroad said. With a stronger-than-typical frame, this caboose was in service where pushers were often used.

And not to be outdone, Union Tank Car UTLX 1776 was built in Louisiana in June and will tour the company’s eight facilities this year. It was on display at Union Tank Car’s Altoona, Pa. plant in July – the same time Union Pacific 4-8-8-4 number 4014 was in town.

“Built entirely in Alexandria, La., the railcar honors America’s manufacturing heritage and the skilled workers who continue to build critical transportation infrastructure in the United States,” the company said.

—Michael T. Burkhart

Photo by Michael T. Burkhart