The B&O Railroad Museum will unveil the newly restored American Freedom Train No. 1 (AFT No. 1) on January 12, 2026, as part of the Museum’s contribution to the national America 250 celebration. The restoration of this iconic locomotive—an enduring symbol of unity and patriotism from the 1975/76 U.S. Bicentennial—is the Museum’s gift to the nation as it prepares to celebrate its 250th anniversary. The Museum will also debut a new exhibit devoted to the historic journey of the American Freedom Train including a multimedia presentation of the Dolly Parton and Porter Wagoner song, “Here Comes the Freedom Train.” Dolly Parton’s song will be played during  the unveiling ceremony on January 12.

The unveiling will also launch a yearlong series of programs, exhibitions, and events at the Museum centered on both the AFT No. 1 and America 250, culminating in the celebration of the 200th anniversary of American railroading in 2027—an era that began in 1827 at the very site where the B&O Railroad Museum stands today.

-via Press Release