Exciting news! The new owners of Chesapeake and Ohio 614 posted this press release on their website at 6:14 this morning:
**PRESS RELEASE**
Date: November 8, 2024
RJD America LLC Acquires Historic Chesapeake & Ohio 614 Steam Locomotive and Announces Comprehensive Restoration
The iconic locomotive will be restored at Strasburg Rail Road Mechanical Services and returned to operational status.
Denville, New Jersey
RJD America LLC is thrilled to announce that it has purchased the legendary Chesapeake & Ohio 614 steam locomotive from the American Freedom Train Foundation, Inc. With a firm commitment to preserving railroad heritage, RJD America LLC will invest substantial resources to restore the locomotive and its auxiliary tender at the esteemed Strasburg Rail Road Mechanical Services.
“Chesapeake & Ohio 614 is a treasured part of national history, and we are privileged to become its caretakers,” stated Jason Johnson, General Manager and Communications Director for RJD America LLC.
Constructed in 1948 by the Lima Locomotive Works, the Chesapeake & Ohio 614 is a Class J3a Greenbrier 4-8-4 steam locomotive, marking it as one of the final steam locomotives built for commercial use in America, showcasing the height of steam technology. It primarily served the Chesapeake and Ohio Railway, known for its substantial power and speed in hauling passenger and freight trains.
The comprehensive restoration at Strasburg Rail Road Mechanical Services in Strasburg, Pennsylvania, will ensure the locomotive and its auxiliary tender meet contemporary operational and safety standards and retain their historical authenticity.
“Reviving 614 goes beyond restoring machinery; it’s about reigniting the magic of steam railroading for today’s and tomorrow’s enthusiasts,” Johnson added.
Ross Rowland, the Founder & CEO of the American Freedom Train Foundation, Inc., expressed his satisfaction: “We are extremely pleased that our iconic locomotive is now in the very capable hands of RJD America LLC, where she will receive the excellent care she deserves as America’s last commercially built mainline steam locomotive. RJD America’s commitment to fund her FRA recertification utilizing the outstanding Strasburg Rail Road Mechanical Services assures that she will get a thorough and timely return to service where she can again bring the magic of steam to the public wherever she runs. Our congratulations to RJD America, and we look forward to being trackside to welcome the 614 back to active service soon.”
For further details on the restoration project and upcoming announcements, please visit co614.com
About RJD America LLC
RJD America LLC is dedicated to preserving and promoting America’s rich railroad heritage. Specializing in restoring and operating historic locomotives, the company aims to educate and inspire future generations about the role of railroads in shaping the nation’s history. For more information, please visit: rjdamerica.com
About Chesapeake & Ohio 614
Built in 1948 by the Lima Locomotive Works for the Chesapeake and Ohio Railway, the Chesapeake & Ohio 614 is a historic Class J3a Greenbrier 4-8-4 steam locomotive. It represents the pinnacle of steam locomotive development in the United States and is celebrated for its engineering excellence and its role in American railroading. As of November 2024, RJD America LLC has taken full and independent ownership of Chesapeake & Ohio 614 from the previous owner. The company is dedicated to restoring and operating the locomotive for historical and educational purposes.
About Strasburg Rail Road Mechanical Services
Situated in Strasburg, Pennsylvania, Strasburg Rail Road Mechanical Services is acclaimed for its superior steam locomotive restoration and maintenance. The facility employs a team of expert craftsmen and engineers who have returned many historic locomotives to working condition, preserving an essential aspect of America’s industrial legacy. For more information, please visit: mechanical.
Contact Information:
Jason Johnson
General Manager and Communications Director
RJD America LLC
media@rjdamerica.com
973-750-4000 Ext 614
