History buffs and train enthusiasts in the Delaware area should all make sure to check out the Wilmington and Western Railroad at some point. This historic railroad runs for just over 10 miles. Originally in operation between 1872-1877, the railroad shut down for nearly 90 years before reopening in 1966. You can still take a ride on the railroad today and learn about the various trains and equipment still on display. Our Delaware adoption professionals think this makes for a great educational family field trip. Here are some highlights from our trip to the Wilmington and Western Railroad:
Steam Locomotives
The Railroad has three different locomotives dating back to the early 20th century. One is still currently in use, while the other two are out of service. These locomotives include:
- 0-6-0 Switcher 58 – This engine was built by the Baldwin Locomotive Works of Philadelphia in October 1907 and is still in use today. It was originally built for the Atlanta, Birmingham & Atlantic Railroad.
- 2-6-0 Mogul 92 – This engine was built by the Canadian Locomotive Company of Kingston, Ontario, in 1910. It is currently out of service and awaiting restoration.
- 4-4-0 American 98 – This was the first locomotive with a 4-4-0 wheel arrangement, built in 1837. It is currently out of service.
Diesel Locomotives
You can view two different diesel locomotive at the WWRR:
- SWI Switcher 114 – Engine number 114 was built in 1940 by the Electro-Motive Corporation of General Motors for the Lehigh Valley Railroad. It spent several decades on the LVR before being moved to the Ocean City Western Railroad in Maryland in 1974. The WWRR bought the locomotive in the early 1980s. It is currently stored serviceable.
- Baltimore & Ohio SWI Switcher 8408 – Engine No. 8404 dates back to 1940 and was also built by the Electro-Motive Corporation of General Motors. This engine was part of a 16-locomotive order for the Baltimore & Ohio Railroad.
Doodlebug
The Wilmington and Western Railroad is also home to Pennsylvania Railroad Doodlebug 4662 a.k.a. The Paul Revere. This Doodlebug is still in service and was originally built by Pullman Standard in April 1929. This car is self-propelling and includes passenger seating and baggage storage. Today, the refurbished Doodlebug has features like a modern bathroom, electrical system with air-conditioning and heating, a 60-person seating capacity, and a small baggage area.
Passenger Cars
Six different passenger cars can be found at the Wilmington and Western Railroad:
- Combine 410 – Built in 1914 by the Pullman Company and still in service.
- Open-air coach 442 Kiamensi Springs – Built in 1912 by Pennsylvania’s Altoona Shops and still in service.
- Coach 571 – Built in 1914 by the Pullman Company, still in service.
- Coach 581 – Built in 1914 by the Pullman Company, still in service.
- Coach 602 – Built in 1915 by the Pullman Company, still in service.
- Parlor Car 6795 – Built in 1930 by the Pullman company, still in service.
