What train toured the United States during the 1975–76 Bicentennial?

The American Freedom Train toured the United States during the 1975–76 Bicentennial. The national train carried historical objects and traveled around the country as part of the celebration of the nation’s 200th anniversary.

The train operated from 1975 into 1976 and consisted of 26 cars. Three restored steam locomotives powered it in different regions: Reading Company T-1 No. 2101, Southern Pacific No. 4449, and Texas & Pacific No. 610. Each locomotive handled portions of the route rather than the entire journey.

The American Freedom Train was not the same as the Freedom Train that toured the country in 1947–49. The earlier train promoted American democratic ideals after World War II and displayed historic documents and artifacts. The later train was created specifically for the Bicentennial.

The 1975–76 tour provides a direct precedent for nationwide America250 programming. Both anniversaries use traveling exhibits and public events to connect national history with communities across the United States.