The train departed Mount Carmel after 11:00am. before heading south and east into Schuylkill County. From there, it passed through Locust Gap, Gordon, Ashland, Girardville, Gilberton, Mahanoy City, Barnesville, Hometown, and Nesquehoning before concluding its run in Jim Thorpe, where the consist tied down for the day.
As the locomotive made its way across the county, dozens of residents gathered at crossings, street corners, and trackside pull-offs to catch a glimpse. Families, railfans, and local photographers lined the route, waving and recording video as the red, white, and blue unit rolled by. Some crossings saw groups of 20 to 30 people waiting well in advance of the locomotive’s arrival, hoping to witness the patriotic paint scheme in motion.
Locomotive #1776 is one of Reading & Northern’s most recognizable engines, painted to honor America 250. Its appearance is relatively rare, making Thursday’s run a notable moment for communities along the line.
The specially painted engine was also scheduled to appear on the Lehigh Gorge Scenic Railway on Friday, November 21st, leading tourist excursions departing at 11:00 a.m., 1:00 p.m., and 3:00 p.m.
