(LOOTPRESS) – RJD America LLC has announced the acquisition of the historic Chesapeake & Ohio 614 steam locomotive from the American Freedom Train Foundation, Inc.
The company will invest significant resources into restoring both the locomotive and its auxiliary tender at Strasburg Rail Road Mechanical Services in Strasburg, Pennsylvania.
“Chesapeake & Ohio 614 is a treasured part of national history, and we are privileged to become its caretakers,” said Jason Johnson, General Manager and Communications Director for RJD America LLC.
Built in 1948 by the Lima Locomotive Works, the Chesapeake & Ohio 614 is a Class J3a Greenbrier 4-8-4 steam locomotive.
It was one of the last steam locomotives constructed for commercial use in the U.S., known for its power and speed in hauling both passenger and freight trains on the Chesapeake and Ohio Railway.
The locomotive has been on display at the C&O Railway Heritage Center in Clifton Forge, Virginia, dressed in the livery of the Greenbrier Presidential Express, a luxury train that was never built.
The restoration will focus on ensuring that the locomotive and its auxiliary tender meet modern operational and safety standards while preserving their historical authenticity.
Johnson emphasized the significance of the project, stating, “Reviving 614 goes beyond restoring machinery; it’s about reigniting the magic of steam railroading for today’s and tomorrow’s enthusiasts.”
Ross Rowland, Founder & CEO of the American Freedom Train Foundation, expressed his confidence in RJD America’s ability to care for the locomotive.
“We are extremely pleased that our iconic locomotive is now in the very capable hands of RJD America LLC, where she will receive the excellent care she deserves as America’s last commercially built mainline steam locomotive,” Rowland said.
“RJD America’s commitment to fund her FRA recertification utilizing the outstanding Strasburg Rail Road Mechanical Services assures that she will get a thorough and timely return to service.”
Once restored, the locomotive will return to active service, allowing the public to once again experience the magic of steam-powered railroading.
The Chesapeake & Ohio 614 is a historic Class J3a Greenbrier 4-8-4 steam locomotive built in 1948 by the Lima Locomotive Works. It is celebrated for its engineering excellence and its important role in American railroading history.
