Many Americans remember the American Revolution Bicentennial which was observed throughout 1976. During this year of America250, discover the Whippany Railway Museum’s newest exhibit, which shares the story and mementos related to the American Freedom Train (AFT) of 1975 – 1976. This steam-powered, 26-car train – which was conceived by New Jersey resident Ross Roland Jr. – was a traveling Bicentennial exhibition that carried more than 500 pieces of Americana, including George Washington’s copy of the Constitution, Benjamin Franklin’s handwritten draft of the Articles of Confederation, the original Louisiana Purchase, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.’s robes and Bible, Judy Garland’s dress and ruby slippers from ‘The Wizard of Oz’, and a lunar rover. During its 25,000 mile, 21-month journey, the train visited 138 cities in all 48 contiguous states and was viewed by more than 7 million Americans.
The AFT made a display stop at Morristown, NJ at the Mennen Sports arena from July 23-25, 1976, where thousands lined up each day to see the train and its historic contents. .
In addition to the American Freedom Train display, the Museum’s operating model railroad features an O gauge version of the AFT, as well as a patriotic-themed model freight train with locomotives painted in Bicentennial-era colors.
Come to the Museum to see this historic display before it’s too late. The Whippany Railway Museum is open Sundays only, April through mid-October, 12 Noon to 4PM.