The Diesel Shop at Year-- 30
EMD artwork photos courtesy of Greg Palumbo

Short Line GP30s: There is no question that Electro-Motive Division's GP30 which debuted in July 1961 was a landmark locomotive. Beyond its Detroit automotive stylings, the new model's high-horsepower output teamed with improved mechanical equipment and upgraded electrical systems made it the hotest thing in any builder's showroom -- and record-setting sales in two short years are proof. Although the debate as to whether or not the 2250-hp EMD model was the first second-generation locomotive lingers, there is no denying the four-axle EMD's on-going popularity within the railfan community. Generally speaking, the past two decades have witnessed remaining GP30s relegated to short line railroad service. Thanks to several photographers their shrinking ranks are profiled here. Kodak Park to Ivy City (Days 3): In early 1972, several months had been spent by our usual group of railfan travellers planning a three-day trip to Omaha, Nebraska. The primary objective was to capture on film as many Union Pacific double-engine locomotives as possible. However, weather became problematic on the morning of departure, so we tossed the original itinerary and headed east where ample sun was forecasted. We were not disappointed. Trip details here. U.S.A. 250th Anniversary Locomotives: The current number of locomotives painted to celebrate the country's Semiquincentennial now stands at seven with additional units being planned. We'll try to document each new Semiquincentennial participating railroad / corporation as they are introduced. The 2026 American Freedom Train schedule has not been posted as yet. Please use the following AFT link to learn more about the train and to get answers to your questions.

In the Queue: December - Wow -1968 (by P. Denny Custer) January -- WGRF 1973 February- West Michigan's Interurbans (by R. Craig)