What was the name of the train that toured all 48 contiguous states for the 1976 United States Bicentennial?

The American Freedom Train toured all 48 contiguous states during the 1975–76 United States Bicentennial observance.

The 26-car train carried historical artifacts and traveled across the country to commemorate the 200th anniversary of American independence. Its tour began on April 1, 1975, in Wilmington, Delaware, before continuing through regions across the United States.

Three restored steam locomotives powered different sections of the journey: Reading Company T-1 No. 2101, Southern Pacific No. 4449, and Texas & Pacific No. 610. Diesel locomotives were also used on some routes because of railroad conditions and operational requirements.

More than seven million Americans visited the train during its tour. The Bicentennial celebration was a major nationwide anniversary program, making the Freedom Train a useful predecessor to the public-history events associated with America’s 250th anniversary in 2026.