GETTYSBURG – A modern diesel locomotive will soon be riding the rails through the Gettysburg Battlefield in a few weeks.
“We’re proud to enhance tourism by inviting guests to experience the rich history of one of America’s most iconic landscapes – aboard a passenger railcar journeying through the Adams County countryside,” said Brandy Christian, CEO at Patriot Rail through a press release. “This launch marks an exciting new chapter in Patriot Rail’s Excursion Division growth and its commitment to supporting the communities we serve.”
Patriot Rail of Florida, who owns 31 short line and regional railroads, is opening its newest attraction, Gettysburg Excursion Railway in early September. The opening marks the fourth excursion train for Patriot Rail, further expanding its newly formed Excursion Division. The historic 1884 Gettysburg and Harrisburg Railroad Depot at 160 North Washington St. has been fully restored by Patriot Rail. This depot will serve as the ticket office and gift shop for the railway. Gettysburg College owns the train depot property.
The railway offers visitors a 25-mile narrated round trip from Gettysburg to Biglerville. Future plans are to have the train travel to Mount Holly Springs. The train passes through farms, orchards and small towns. A highlight of the scenic tour is riding through the Gettysburg National Battlefield Park passing the Eternal Peace Light on Oak Hill.
Tim Smith, director of education, Adams County Historical Society and a Licensed Battlefield Guide, wrote the narration about Gettysburg’s history and the landmarks along the railway excursion.
Since 2023, Patriot Rail has been crafting the Gettysburg Excursion Railway. The new train is powered by GM EMD GP38-2 diesel locomotives. It features fully renovated Budd passenger coaches from the 1950s, as well as special luxury cars. A few train cars were converted from original Barnum & Bailey Circus cars to be used for themed excursions and private events.
A café car will serve snacks and drinks, with catering by Gettysburg College Culinary and Wyndham Gettysburg Hotel & Conference Center for group bookings.
Gettysburg Excursion Railway will be offering an evening train on Fridays, three trains on Saturdays and three trains on Sundays starting in early September, according to Katie Chimelewski Roller, assistant vice president for communications, of Patriot Rail.
