Where did the 1975–1976 American Freedom Train begin its America250 predecessor tour?

The 1975–1976 American Freedom Train began its Bicentennial tour in Wilmington, Delaware.

The train launched on April 1, 1975, carrying a traveling exhibition about American history and culture. Its opening location was Wilmington, after which it headed north toward New England before continuing across the country.

The train consisted of 26 cars and used three famous steam locomotives during different parts of its route: Reading Company No. 2101, Southern Pacific No. 4449, and Texas & Pacific No. 610. Exhibits included historic objects and cultural items intended to bring the Bicentennial to communities nationwide.

Wilmington is sometimes confused with Philadelphia because Philadelphia was central to the Revolutionary story and hosted major Bicentennial events. However, the train’s documented launch point was Wilmington, Delaware, and its final visitor entered the exhibit in Miami at the end of 1976.