Potomac Eagle takes pride in the two locomotives that we currently own. With a rich history and expanded maintenance for improved use, these trains are equipped to give you a majestic experience across the Trough.
The first train owned by Potomac Eagle is called the Baltimore & Ohio F7A number 722, which was built in 1952. This train, which was originally known as the Bessemer & Lake Erie 722, spent its life hauling iron ore pellets from the Conneaut, OH ore docks to hungry steel mills in Pittsburgh, PA before getting purchased.
The Canadian Pacific number 8250 was built in 1955, originally known as CP 8516. After retirement, it was purchased by Larry’s Truck and Electric in Ohio in 2015. Potomac Eagle bought the train and had it delivered in November 2017. After some maintenance and a new paint job, the locomotive was completed on June 29, 2018.
On most of the Potomac Eagle’s trips, you’ll find an open-air car or two just behind the locomotive on the south end of the train. One is an open-top gondola car that had been used to carry freight like pipes or railroad ties, but now is outfitted with benches so passengers can step outside to take in the view of the Trough. The second open-air car is covered, but has large wide-open windows where you can lean out to get a better look. This car is one of several where restrooms are located.
Regular passenger coaches are coupled to the north of the open-air cars. Most of these cars came from commuter rail service on the Canadian National. Typical seating in these cars are cushioned, reversible seats where passengers can move the seat-back in order to face in either direction.
We have three cars that feature table-style seating, which is convenient for those bringing picnic lunches or passengers enjoying our on-board snack car. These cars are also mainly used by bus groups.
In the middle of the train is the ever-important concession car, which was originally a kitchen car during the Korean War. Here, you’ll find a selection of hot dogs, nachos, candy, chips, popcorn, and other snacks that you and your party can enjoy. This car also includes beverages like hot coffee, soda, Gatorade, and water.
On the north end of the train are our Club Cars. These lounge cars, Pere Marquette’s Eagle Cañon and Chesapeake and Ohio’s Chessie Club, feature couch/loveseat style seating with tables, are climate-controlled, and include meal service. These classic, stylish looks invoke memories of the days of luxury rail travel, and help our passengers immerse themselves in the experience. This look is complemented by Chesapeake & Ohio railroad china and tableware, just as was done years ago.
Learn more about the Chessie Club car from the C&O Historical Society Chessie Club Car article. Included you will find a diagram of the car. The seating areas of both the Chessie Club and Eagle Cañon are very similar. In fact, they are two of only four of this style, each with a sister car that is still in operation today.
Want to learn more about our equipment? Visit our History page.
