(April 1, 2009 – Strasburg, PA) Trainfestival 2009 and the Strasburg Railroad are pleased to announce an additional steam locomotive to attend the upcoming Largest Celebration of Railroading, held in July. Former Norfolk & Western 4-8-0 #475, one of the oldest steam locomotives built in America, will be attending TrainFestival 2009. Engine 475 is currently the only operating 4-8-0 in the country, as well as the only operating engine from the N&W.

Engine 475 has been in operation since 1993, having been purchased by the Strasburg Railroad two years prior. It was built in 1906 by the Baldwin Locomotive Works for the N&W, and is only one of two surviving N&W locomotives of its type. #475 will be hauling hourly excursions from the festival, replacing Little River Railroad #110, citing the need for more horsepower.

TrainFestival 2009 is America’s Largest Celebration of Railroading and will include 9 steam locomotives under steam, vintage and modern diesel/electric locomotives, various train rides, huge model train layouts, miniature train rides, art exhibit, locomotive cab tours, railroad vendors and much more. This family event is being held as a fund raiser to fund the upcoming overhaul of Pere Marquette steam locomotive no. 1225. This locomotive, owned by the Steam Railroading Institute of Owosso, MI is due for Federal Railroad Administration re-certification in 2010. This locomotive is best known as the steam locomotive portrayed in the animated movie “The Polar Express”.

The Strasburg Railroad, located in the Lancaster County, PA town of Strasburg, deep in the heart of Amish country. The railroad is the oldest shortline in America, with its charter dating back to June 1832. Since 1958, the railroad has hauled thousands of tourists on its 4.5 mile long line connecting Strasburg with the former PRR mainline in Paradise.

For more information, check the website: www.trainfestival2009.com/475/fooledya!

Routing information, need routing information!

Dammit Mike, you beat me to it......................