Wings Like Eagles

Four score and several years ago in 1976, a small group of historic locomotives were chosen to pull the American Freedom Train across the United States. Several of these engines were adorned with decorative gold eagles on their headlights as part of the celebration. One such eagle, made by The Liberty Flagpole Company, proudly stood guard on the headlight of AFT #1 (Reading #2101) as it toured the eastern portion of the country.

We wish to continue that tradition once more! Our goal is to send one eagle to every steam railroad in the United States to proudly stand guard on the headlights of their chosen locomotive to mark the celebration of the 250th anniversary starting with the new American Freedom Train, the AFT #250 (Reading 2100) located in Cleveland, Ohio. We would also like to return one to its rightful position on AFT #1 at the B&O Railroad Museum. The original eagle reportedly went missing years ago.

We welcome any assistance in acquiring the eagles with the goal of having them arrive at the railroads in time for the upcoming 2026 festivities. Every dollar raised will go towards the purchase of the eagles and the cost of shipping the eagles to the railroads and any funds leftover at the end of the campaign in 2026 will be donated to charity.

So climb aboard and celebrate our 250th in style! Lets help this dream fly on Wings Like Eagles!

God Bless the USA!