American Steam Railroad To Raise $18,000 To Move American Freedom Train 250 Under Steam

Zane Williams photo, modified with permission.

CLEVELAND — The American Steam Railroad Preservation Association (ASR) has announced a new fundraising campaign toward American Freedom Train steam locomotive No. 250’s next restoration milestone. The organization seeks to raise $18,000 to prepare the patriotic engine for its first movements under steam.

“In 2026, locomotive No. 250 has accelerated toward the finish line, and our supporters have shone through like never before,” said Social Media Chairperson Nick Martin. “With our first moves under steam in sight and the to-do list growing shorter every day, we need one more push of funding to reach this $18,000 goal.”

The $18,000 goal breaks down as follows: $7,500 to assemble the brakes; $2,000 to finish jacketing and lagging; $3,000 to finish cab gauge assembly; $3,000 for running gear work; and $2,500 to cover the cost of the fire-ups and use of a diesel locomotive. The first test movements are expected to take place within yard limits at the historic B&O roundhouse in Cleveland.

To assist with fundraising, ASR is selling No. 250’s three original air reservoirs as souvenirs. With their riveted lap-seam construction, it is almost certain that these reservoirs have been with the locomotive most of its life, adding significant historical value. The units have recently been replaced by modern welded reservoirs. Terms apply and can be found on ASR’s gift store.

Dave Zeman photo.

“While these first movements are not the end of the restoration, they will be incredibly important in our behind-the-scenes work to secure funding and operating contracts,” Martin continued. “This means the grassroots support we receive now will ensure this locomotive thrives in 2027 and beyond.”

Due to the nature of the testing, dates will not be announced in advance, and the roundhouse will be closed to the public when the test movements occur.

In 2005, a group of engineers, businessmen, and railroaders formed the American Steam Railroad Preservation Association, a 501c3 nonprofit organization. In 2015, ASR surprised the railroad preservation industry by signing a multi-year lease for Reading Company steam locomotive No. 2100 and completing a 2,200-mile move to Cleveland, Ohio. It has become one of the most ambitious steam locomotive restorations in the United States, with over 28,000 volunteer hours committed.

Locomotive No. 2100 now adorns the striking red, white and blue colors of the American Freedom Train and has been renumbered to No. 250. Based on conversations with rail tourism consultants, it is conservatively estimated that ASR’s steam locomotive operation program will attract 15,000 to 25,000 visitors annually, generating between $2.25 million and $3.75 million in economic growth each year.

Tax-deductible donations towards the restoration of AFT No. 250 / Reading No. 2100 can be mailed to American Steam Railroad Preservation Association, 2800 W. 3rd St, Cleveland, OH 44113, or made online at www.americansteamrailroad.org/donate.