Which train toured the United States during the 1976 bicentennial, the 50-year predecessor to America250?

The American Freedom Train toured the United States during the 1976 bicentennial, the major anniversary that preceded America250 by 50 years.

The train carried a collection of American artifacts and traveled across the country as part of the national celebration of the Declaration of Independence’s bicentennial. It was organized as a moving exhibition, allowing communities far from Washington, D.C., or Philadelphia to encounter objects associated with American history.

The train began its tour in 1975 and visited all 48 contiguous states before the bicentennial year concluded. Its route and exhibition made it one of the most visible symbols of the 200th-anniversary celebrations.

The American Freedom Train is distinct from the Freedom Train of 1947–1949, which also carried historical documents and toured the country. America250 is the 250th anniversary observance in 2026, while the 1976 event marked 200 years since the 1776 declaration.