Celebrating America through the Stories of the Railroad
America 250 at the B&O is a yearlong series of programs, exhibitions, and events in honor of the 250th anniversary of America. At the B&O, we are celebrating the rich history of the railroad, this country, and the railroad’s enduring impact on U.S. technology, good and ideas.
The centerpiece of this celebration includes the unveiling of the American Freedom Train No. 1 (AFT No. 1), newly restored to its AFT paint scheme for the anniversary. The AFT No. 1 is one of three locomotives that pulled the American Freedom Train of 1975–1976, a traveling Bicentennial exhibition that carried more than 500 pieces of Americana, including George Washington’s copy of the Constitution, Benjamin Franklin’s handwritten draft of the Articles of Confederation, the original Louisiana Purchase, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.’s pulpit, Judy Garland’s dress from The Wizard of Oz, and even a lunar rover.
The cosmetic restoration of this iconic locomotive—an enduring symbol of unity and patriotism from the 1975/76 U.S. Bicentennial—is the Museum’s gift to the nation as it celebrates its semi quincentennial.
America 250 at the Museum
AFT No. 1 Unveiling
Mon, January 12, 2026 @ 1 PM
Experience the newly restored American Freedom Train (AFT) No. 1—a powerful symbol of American pride, unity, and ingenuity.
B&O Unlocked: AFT No. 1
January 24, 25, & 28, 2026 @ 10 AM-4 PM
Now beautifully restored, the AFT No. 1 stands ready once again to inspire all who believe in the enduring spirit of freedom and progress. Take advantage of this rare opportunity to step inside the cab!
American Freedom Tour
February 7, 14, 21, & 28, 2026 @ 10:30 AM
Discover the powerful intersection of American history and the rise of railroading. Uncover how the railroad opened the door to freedom: freedom to prosper, freedom to explore, and freedom to pursue a new life.
Black History Month: Unveiling Celebration for the B&O No. 3316
February 21 @ 11 AM
In celebration of Black History Month, the National Museum of Railroad History & Innovation unveils the newly restored Baltimore & Ohio Railroad No. 3316 “Washington,” a 1949 observation tavern car that represents the height of luxury rail travel and honors the African American railroad workers—especially Pullman Porters—who made that experience possible.
B&O Unlocked: B&O No. 3316
February 25, 28, & March 1, 2026 @ 10 AM-4 PM
In honor of Black History Month, we are unveiling the newly restored B&O No. 3316 observation lounge car!
B&O Unlocked: AFT No. 1
July 4, 5, 18, & 19, 2026
We are re-unlocking the AFT No.1 in honor of Independence Day! The cosmetically restored “T-Hog” was just placed on display in January of this year. If you missed your chance to see it then, now is the time to check it out!
Summer S.T.E.A.M. Week
August 17-21, 2026
Celebrate the inventors and engineers who helped build America! Explore the science, stories, and cool inventions that powered America’s railroads.
American Freedom Tour
September 5, 6, & 7, 2026 @ 10 AM
Discover the powerful intersection of American history and the rise of railroading. Uncover how the railroad opened the door to freedom: freedom to prosper, freedom to explore, and freedom to pursue a new life.
Story Time & Make Your Own Maryland Flag
May 25 @10:30 AM
Enjoy a read aloud of Jackrabbit McCabe and the Electric Telegraph by Lucy Margaret Rozier. Afterwards, color your own Maryland flag!
"The War Came by Train" Civil War Tour
May 25 @ 10:30 AM & 1 PM
On this tour we will uncover the story behind the first-time trains were used in warfare: the American Civil War.
Morse Code Workshop
May 25 @ 10 AM- 4 PM
Learn about the connection between Samuel Morse’s telegraph and the B&O. Next, decode your own name in Morse Code and create a bracelet.
Paper Flashlight Workshop
May 25 @ 10 AM- 4 PM
Learn to communicate in Morse Code using paper flashlights! Participants will learn about how circuits and polarity work during this activity.
"The Underground Railroad: Freedom Seekers on the B&O" Public Tour
June 19 @ 10:30 AM & 1 PM
On this tour we will explore the history of the Underground Railroad using experiences of 27 documented freedom seekers who have interacted with the B&O Railroad on their journey to freedom.
"Working on the Railroad: The B&O and the Labor Movement" Public Tour
September 7 @ 10:30 AM & 1 PM
This tour will explore the unique history of working for the railroad in America and the evolution of worker rights from the 19th to the 20th centuries, with particular focus on the employees of the B&O Railroad.
"Maryland on the Rails: The B&O's Contribution to Maryland History" Public Tour
October 12 @ 10:30 AM & 1 PM
This tour will examine how Maryland before 1827 became an ideal location for the B&O Railroad and as a result how the B&O Railroad has continued to contribute to the robust history of the state of Maryland.
"Iron War Horses: B&O's Support of American Troops Abroad" Public Tour
November 11 @ 10:30 AM & 1 PM
Explore the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad’s involvement in global conflicts like the Civil War, World War I, and World War II on this engaging and exciting tour of our historic collection.
Upcoming Events at the Museum
WITH GENEROUS SUPPORT FROM:
“Baltimore's Child 2021 Readers' Choice Winner”
2021
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