This week, BNSF released three locomotives in an America250 patriotic paint scheme, adding to the growing number of railroads celebrating the upcoming Anniversary.
In a press release, Katie Farmer, BNSF Railway president and CEO, said “Few institutions are woven into the fabric of America quite like the railroad, and BNSF is honored to celebrate our nation’s 250th anniversary with these specially painted locomotives. For nearly two centuries, railroaders have helped shape the American story, connecting communities, powering economic growth and strengthening the nation we call home. These locomotives pay tribute not only to our country’s heritage, but also to the men and women of Team BNSF who carry that legacy forward today.”
The new paint scheme is similar to the Santa Fe’s (a predecessor to BNSF) 1976 Bicentennial paint scheme, but modified and styled for today’s freight locomotive. The new scheme is also a nod to the Burlington Northern’s (a predecessor to BNSF) 1976 Bicentennial paint scheme, which sported a red & white striped nose, a white cab, and red diagonal stripes on each side, similar to those on the original Santa Fe scheme. The underframe, fuel tank, and trucks were painted blue.
Jen Condon, executive vice president of America250, said “America’s 250th anniversary is an opportunity to recognize the industries and workers who have helped connect and strengthen our nation for generations. BNSF’s commemorative locomotives are a powerful tribute to the role railroads have played in America’s growth and to the people who continue that legacy every day as we approach the Semiquincentennial.”
BNSF also said “Each locomotive, specially painted by Mid-America Car, Inc. in Kansas City, Missouri, proudly features our nation’s red, white and blue colors and the America250 logo. The locomotives feature a nod to the Preamble to the United States Constitution with the words, “We the People.” The trailing end of the locomotives includes the words “Freedom and Liberty” on either side, with the circle of stars on the tail, paying tribute to the Betsy Ross flag.
“These three historic locomotives will travel BNSF’s 32,500-mile rail network for special events, while joining the rest of the BNSF fleet to deliver the nation’s freight for the customers and communities we serve across the supply chain.”
