Nevada Northern Railway Unveils Locomotive 250 in Honor of America’s 250th Anniversary
WHAT:
On July 4, the Nevada Northern Railway Museum (NNRY) in Ely, Nevada unveiled Locomotive 250, a fully restored locomotive commemorating the upcoming 250th anniversary of the United States’ independence in 2026.
To commemorate this historic milestone, the NNRY has transformed its ex-Southern Pacific, ex-BHP SD-9 locomotive with a special red, white and blue patriotic paint scheme, designed by Ryan Boettcher, the winner of the Museum’s national United States 250th Anniversary Paint Scheme Contest.
Before the public unveiling, the locomotive underwent extensive mechanical and cosmetic restoration by museum staff and volunteers, including electrical repairs, prime mover maintenance, and a full repaint completed in-house. The new paint scheme was applied in-house by Angela Stevens, the Museum’s Superintendent, ensuring historical accuracy and durability while capturing the celebratory spirit of the Semiquincentennial.
Locomotive 250 will remain in its commemorative paint scheme through 2027 and will be available to operate as part of the NNRY’s Hands-On History: Be the Engineer program beginning in early August. This program gives guests ages 18 and up the opportunity to operate the locomotive themselves on a 14-mile round-trip journey across the historic railway. Proceeds from the program support ongoing preservation efforts.
The project was made possible by a grant from the White Pine County Tourism and Recreation Board and support from the Museum’s membership base. For more information, please visit https://nnry.com/.
WHEN:
Unveiled on July 4, 2025
Be the Engineer experiences with Locomotive 250 begin early August 2025
WHERE:
Nevada Northern Railway Museum
1100 Avenue A, Ely, Nevada 89301
About Visit White Pine County
Immerse yourself in the captivating allure of White Pine County, centered around the remote mountain town of Ely, positioned on the eastern edge of “Nevada’s Loneliest Highway.” With a population of 4,000, Ely seamlessly integrates history, art, and outdoor adventure. Explore the wonders of the nearby Great Basin National Park, featuring the Lehman Cave system and the majestic Wheeler Peak. Wander through Ely’s downtown on the 11-block art walk, adorned with over 20 murals and sculptures depicting the town’s rich history. Don’t miss the Nevada Northern Railway, a National Historic Landmark showcasing the town’s rail heritage. Plan your visit to White Pine County at elynevada.net and discover the hidden gems that await in this destination.