WASHINGTON, D.C. – The B&O Railroad Museum is proud to announce that the Railway Supply Institute (RSI) has joined as a key partner to support the Bicentennial of American Railroading in 2027. Together, they will shine a spotlight on the past, present, and future of American railroading as the nation celebrates 200 years since the founding of the Baltimore & Ohio Railroad, America’s first chartered rail line, on February 28, 1827.
Known as the birthplace of American railroading, the B&O Railroad Museum sits on the original grounds where the first stone was laid for the first mile of commercial track in the country. The railroad was a technological engineering innovation, opening American expansion westward by enabling the movement of goods and people. Today, American railroads facilitate over $2 billion dollars a day of economic commerce.
Founded in 1908, RSI is the leading voice of the railway supply industry, representing the entire supply chain that keeps America’s railroads moving—from small component manufacturers to the largest locomotive and railcar builders and lessors. With its broad membership, RSI is uniquely positioned to highlight the essential role of rail suppliers in powering the industry.
As a Bicentennial partner, RSI will display its logo on the anniversary website, www.americanrail200.org, and has committed to amplify the 200th anniversary of American railroading in 2027 with its membership and beyond.
RSI will also work with the Museum on the planning of its new Innovation Hall showcasing the present and future of railroading technologies. The Innovation Hall will open in 2027.
“The invention of the railroad is often viewed as the internet of its time given its transformative impact on American life,” said Kris A. Hoellen, Executive Director of the B&O Railroad Museum. “Having RSI as a partner, representing the technologies that ensure the rail system continues to innovate, is a natural fit to be front and center in the celebration.”
“RSI is honored to join this historic celebration,” said Jim Riley, President of the Railway Supply Institute. “The Bicentennial is a chance to celebrate two centuries of progress while showcasing how rail will continue to move America forward.”
The Bicentennial of American Railroading will be a nationwide celebration culminating in 2027, inviting railroads, industry partners, museums, and communities across the country to participate.
For more information and updates on the 200th Anniversary of American Railroading, visit www.americanrail200.org.
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About American Rail 200
The 200th anniversary of American railroading is a national celebration of the railroad’s many contributions to American life: socially, culturally, and economically. On February 28, 1827, the Baltimore & Ohio Railroad became the first North American common carrier railroad chartered for the commercial transportation of freight and passengers. As the railroad was built, it carried new ideas, technology, and culture, rapidly transforming a young America. It was considered to be the internet of its time, with many modern-day elements such as time zones, labor policies, and even Mother’s Day tracing its origins back to the railroad. To learn more about events and news happening across the country, please visit www.americanrail200.org.
About the B&O Railroad Museum
The B&O Railroad Museum, located in Baltimore, Md., is the birthplace of American railroading and a National Historic Landmark. The Museum is a full affiliate of the Smithsonian Institution and a National Underground Railroad Network to Freedom Site. It is dedicated to the preservation and interpretation of American railroading and its impact on American society, culture, and economy. The Museum is home to the oldest, most comprehensive collection of railroad artifacts in the Western Hemisphere, including an unparalleled roster of 19th and 20th century railroad equipment, the 1851 Mt. Clare Station, the 1884 Baldwin Roundhouse and the first mile of commercial railroad track in America. The Museum welcomes guests from all 50 states and 40 countries every year. For more information, please call 410- 752-2490 or visit www.BORail.org.
About the Railway Supply Institute (RSI)
The Railway Supply Institute (RSI) is dedicated to advancing safety, innovation, technology, and sustainability within the freight and passenger railway supplier industry, both in North America and global markets. As the voice of the industry, RSI strategically engages in critical and urgent industry matters by leveraging the technical expertise of our members to advocate in the legislative and regulatory arenas, foster education, host impactful events, and facilitate networking opportunities. For more information visit www.rsiweb.org, follow RSI on Twitter and LinkedIn.