Uploaded March 2026 | Updated September 2026, 2 hours ago

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Thanks to a heads-up, I was able to get out to Effingham, IL to catch the first public run of the new 250th commemorative US Independence locomotives.

Leading the charge is 1776, painted in the "Screaming Eagle" livery, 2nd in charge is 2026, in a Red, White, and Blue "Air Force One" paint scheme.

It was a bit of a foggy night, but worth the effort. These things look great!!!

Who will be the first model manufacturer to produce them?

Leave your thoughts in the comments below.