Engineer Noah Barkley keeps a watchful eye on the track ahead from Cass Scenic Railway Heisler #6 as they pull through the countryside at Wanless on the way to Durban, West Virginia, during the Cass Spring Photographers Special, from Cass, West Virginia on May 4th, 2025. According to the Mountain Rail West Virginia Website: The Meadow River Lumber No. 6 was built by the Heisler Locomotive Works in Erie, PA, in 1929 for the Bostonia Coal & Clay Products Company of New Bethlehem, PA. The Heisler was sold to the Meadow River Lumber Company at Rainelle, WV in 1939, where it was rostered as No. 6. She retired from the lumber company in 1965 and was purchased by the purchased it by the state of West Virginia purchased. The engine ran under its own steam from Rainelle to its new home in Cass in December 1966. No. 6 would begin operating on the railroad in 1968. The Heisler is the fastest geared locomotive in the Cass collection. Tech Info: Nikon Z6ii, RAW, Nikon 70-300 @ 300mm, f/5.6, 1/160, ISO 250. #railroad #railroads #train, #trains #railway #railway #railtransport #railroadengines #picturesoftrains #picturesofrailways #besttrainphotograph #bestphoto #photographyoftrains #bestsoldpicture #JimPearsonPhotography #steamtrain #casssenicrailway

Engineer Noah Barkley keeps a watchful eye on the track ahead from Cass Scenic Railway Heisler #6

Engineer Noah Barkley keeps a watchful eye on the track ahead from Cass Scenic Railway Heisler #6 as they pull through the countryside at Wanless on the way to Durban, West Virginia, during the Cass Spring Photographers Special, from Cass, West Virginia on May 4th, 2025.

According to the Mountain Rail West Virginia Website: The Meadow River Lumber No. 6 was built by the Heisler Locomotive Works in Erie, PA, in 1929 for the Bostonia Coal & Clay Products Company of New Bethlehem, PA.

The Heisler was sold to the Meadow River Lumber Company at Rainelle, WV in 1939, where it was rostered as No. 6. She retired from the lumber company in 1965 and was purchased by the purchased it by the state of West Virginia purchased. The engine ran under its own steam from Rainelle to its new home in Cass in December 1966. No. 6 would begin operating on the railroad in 1968. The Heisler is the fastest geared locomotive in the Cass collection.

Tech Info: Nikon Z6ii, RAW, Nikon 70-300 @ 300mm, f/5.6, 1/160, ISO 250.

This isn’t the shot I had planned for this train, and the day for this train didn’t go as planned for the crew either! I waited across the river at Henderson, Kentucky for this B237 phosphate loads, which were scheduled to take the Texas Line here at Henderson, Ky, but wires got crossed and their train was sent south along the Henderson Subdivision, until the dispatcher realized they were supposed to take the Texas line to Louisville, Ky. So, the train went to the siding at Rankin, which is about 5 miles south of Henderson where the crew ran their power around the train and then pulled their loads back through Henderson. Then they backed their train onto the Texas Line, which you can see snaking off in the distance to the left. They then sat there to allow a few trains to get by as they were blocking the main. After this shot, which I didn’t wait for as it was dark, they ran back around their train and took it onto Louisville. A missed thrown switch and light cost this crew and train an extra 3 or more hours as that’s how long it took for all this to happen. There’s a draw bridge at Spottsville, Ky where I sat for two of those hours waiting to photograph him at. There’ll be others though and some days it goes like this! The old L&N Depot is in the upper right corner of this shot and is currently under restoration. The blue engine is GECX 2038, and the other is Canadian National 3281. Tech Info: DJI Mavic 3 Classic Drone, RAW, 22mm, f/2.8, 1/160, ISO 160 #railroad #railroads #train, #trains #railway #railway #railtransport #railroadengines #picturesoftrains #picturesofrailways #besttrainphotograph #bestphoto #photographyoftrains #bestsoldpicture #JimPearsonPhotography #trainsfromtheair #trainsfromadrone #onecsx #csx

This isn’t the shot I had planned for this train, but it still works!

This isn’t the shot I had planned for this train, and the day for this train didn’t go as planned for the crew either!

I waited across the river at Henderson, Kentucky for this B237 phosphate loads, which were scheduled to take the Texas Line here at Henderson, Ky, but wires got crossed and their train was sent south along the Henderson Subdivision, until the dispatcher realized they were supposed to take the Texas line to Louisville, Ky.

So, the train went to the siding at Rankin, which is about 5 miles south of Henderson where the crew ran their power around the train and then pulled their loads back through Henderson. Then they backed their train onto the Texas Line, which you can see snaking off in the distance to the left.

They then sat there to allow a few trains to get by as they were blocking the main. After this shot, which I didn’t wait for as it was dark, they ran back around their train and took it onto Louisville.

A missed thrown switch and light cost this crew and train an extra 3 or more hours as that’s how long it took for all this to happen.

There’s a draw bridge at Spottsville, Ky where I sat for two of those hours waiting to photograph him at. There’ll be others though and some days it goes like this!

The old L&N Depot is in the upper right corner of this shot and is currently under restoration.

The blue engine is GECX 2038, and the other is Canadian National 3281.

Tech Info: DJI Mavic 3 Classic Drone, RAW, 22mm, f/2.8, 1/160, ISO 160

October 4th, 2025 – Saturday Edited Video from Jim Pearson Photography – Episode 144

October 4th, 2025 – Episode 144 Saturday Edited Video from Jim Pearson Photography This week’s Saturday Edited Video is between Madisonville and Gum Lick Trestle, just north of Kelly, Kentucky, and includes some KCS and Union Pacific action on the CSX Henderson Subdivision between August 27th and September 1st, 2025.

Sit back, turn up the sound, expand to full screen and enjoy the trains!! Please like, share, subscribe and thanks for watching!

Paducah and Louisville Railway 4503 and 4521 lead a loaded Louisville, Gas and Electric coal train north at Central City, Kentucky, on August 26th, 2025. According to Wikipedia: The Paducah & Louisville Railway (reporting mark PAL) is a Class II railroad that operates freight service between Paducah and Louisville, Kentucky. The line is located entirely within the Commonwealth of Kentucky. The 270-mile (430 km) line was purchased from Illinois Central Gulf Railroad in August of 1986. Tech Info: DJI Mavic 3 Classic Drone, RAW, 22mm, f/2.8, 1/2000, ISO 110 #railroad #railroads #train, #trains #railway #railway #steamtrains #railtransport #railroadengines #picturesoftrains #picturesofrailways #besttrainphotograph #bestphoto #photographyoftrains #bestsoldpicture #JimPearsonPhotography #trainsfromtheair #trainsfromadrone #paducahandlouisvillerailway

Paducah and Louisville Railway 4503 and 4521 lead a loaded coal train north at Central City, Kentucky

Paducah and Louisville Railway 4503 and 4521 lead a loaded Louisville, Gas and Electric coal train north at Central City, Kentucky, on August 26th, 2025.

According to Wikipedia: The Paducah & Louisville Railway (reporting mark PAL) is a Class II railroad that operates freight service between Paducah and Louisville, Kentucky. The line is located entirely within the Commonwealth of Kentucky.

The 270-mile (430 km) line was purchased from Illinois Central Gulf Railroad in August of 1986.

Tech Info: DJI Mavic 3 Classic Drone, RAW, 22mm, f/2.8, 1/2000, ISO 110

Paducah and Louisville Railway 4503 locomotive brings up the rear as DPU on the Louisville Gas and Electric loaded coal train headed north as it passes under the Grapevine Road in Madisonville, Kentucky, on July 30th, 2025. Tech Info: DJI Mavic 3 Classic Drone, RAW, 22mm, f/2.8, 1/200, ISO 180. #railroad #railroads #train, #trains #railway #railway #steamtrains #railtransport #railroadengines #picturesoftrains #picturesofrailways #besttrainphotograph #bestphoto #photographyoftrains #bestsoldpicture #JimPearsonPhotography #trainsfromtheair #trainsfromadrone #paducahandlouisvillerailway #pal

Paducah and Louisville Railway 4503 locomotive brings up the rear as DPU

Paducah and Louisville Railway 4503 locomotive brings up the rear as DPU on the Louisville Gas and Electric loaded coal train headed north as it passes under the Grapevine Road in Madisonville, Kentucky, on July 30th, 2025.

Tech Info: DJI Mavic 3 Classic Drone, RAW, 22mm, f/2.8, 1/200, ISO 180.

Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad steam locomotive D&RGW 463 makes its way across High Bridge with a freight train on the way to Osier, Colorado, during a photo charter by Dak Dillon Photography on October 19th, 2023. According to their website: the Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad is a National Historic Landmark. At 64-miles in length, it is the longest, the highest and most authentic steam railroad in North America, traveling through some of the most spectacular scenery in the Rocky Mountain West. Owned by the states of Colorado and New Mexico, the train crosses state borders 11 times, zigzagging along canyon walls, burrowing through two tunnels, and steaming over 137-foot Cascade Trestle. All trains steam along through deep forests of aspens and evergreens, across high plains filled with wildflowers, and through a rocky gorge of remarkable geologic formations. Deer, antelope, elk, fox, eagles and even bear are frequently spotted on this family friendly, off-the grid adventure. According to History Colorado Website: Built in 1903 by the Baldwin Locomotive Works of Philadelphia, Engine No. 463 is one of only two remaining locomotives of the K-27 series originally built for and operated by the Denver & Rio Grande Western Railroad. The K-27 series was a departure from the design most prevalent on Colorado’s narrow-gauge lines, resulting in a locomotive with one and one-half times more power. The arrival of this series marked a significant turning point in the operation of the D&RGW’s narrow gauge lines that was to remain in effect until the end of Class I narrow gauge steam locomotion in 1968. The Friends of the Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad restored the engine to operating condition. Tech Info: DJI Mavic 3 Classic Drone, RAW, 22mm, f/2.8, 1/1250, ISO 100. railroad, railroads train, trains, best photo. sold photo, railway, railway, sold train photos, sold train pictures, steam trains, rail transport, railroad engines, pictures of trains, pictures of railways, best train photograph, best photo, photography of trains, steam, train photography, sold picture, best sold picture, Jim Pearson Photography, Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad, steam train, CTSRR, Trains from the air, drone

Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad steam locomotive D&RGW 463 makes its way across High Bridge

Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad steam locomotive D&RGW 463 makes its way across High Bridge with a freight train on the way to Osier, Colorado, during a photo charter by Dak Dillon Photography on October 19th, 2023.

According to their website: the Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad is a National Historic Landmark. At 64-miles in length, it is the longest, the highest and most authentic steam railroad in North America, traveling through some of the most spectacular scenery in the Rocky Mountain West.

Owned by the states of Colorado and New Mexico, the train crosses state borders 11 times, zigzagging along canyon walls, burrowing through two tunnels, and steaming over 137-foot Cascade Trestle. All trains steam along through deep forests of aspens and evergreens, across high plains filled with wildflowers, and through a rocky gorge of remarkable geologic formations. Deer, antelope, elk, fox, eagles and even bear are frequently spotted on this family friendly, off-the grid adventure.

According to History Colorado Website: Built in 1903 by the Baldwin Locomotive Works of Philadelphia, Engine No. 463 is one of only two remaining locomotives of the K-27 series originally built for and operated by the Denver & Rio Grande Western Railroad.

The K-27 series was a departure from the design most prevalent on Colorado’s narrow-gauge lines, resulting in a locomotive with one and one-half times more power. The arrival of this series marked a significant turning point in the operation of the D&RGW’s narrow gauge lines that was to remain in effect until the end of Class I narrow gauge steam locomotion in 1968. The Friends of the Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad restored the engine to operating condition.

Tech Info: DJI Mavic 3 Classic Drone, RAW, 22mm, f/2.8, 1/1250, ISO 100.

The glow of the morning sun illuminates the behind Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad steam locomotive D&RGW 463 as makes its way through the Lava Curve with a freight train on the way to Osier, Colorado, during a photo charter by Dak Dillon Photography on October 19th, 2023. According to their website: the Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad is a National Historic Landmark. At 64-miles in length, it is the longest, the highest and most authentic steam railroad in North America, traveling through some of the most spectacular scenery in the Rocky Mountain West. Owned by the states of Colorado and New Mexico, the train crosses state borders 11 times, zigzagging along canyon walls, burrowing through two tunnels, and steaming over 137-foot Cascade Trestle. All trains steam along through deep forests of aspens and evergreens, across high plains filled with wildflowers, and through a rocky gorge of remarkable geologic formations. Deer, antelope, elk, fox, eagles and even bear are frequently spotted on this family friendly, off-the grid adventure. According to History Colorado Website: Built in 1903 by the Baldwin Locomotive Works of Philadelphia, Engine No. 463 is one of only two remaining locomotives of the K-27 series originally built for and operated by the Denver & Rio Grande Western Railroad. The K-27 series was a departure from the design most prevalent on Colorado’s narrow-gauge lines, resulting in a locomotive with one and one-half times more power. The arrival of this series marked a significant turning point in the operation of the D&RGW’s narrow gauge lines that was to remain in effect until the end of Class I narrow gauge steam locomotion in 1968. The Friends of the Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad restored the engine to operating condition. Tech Info: DJI Mavic 3 Classic Drone, RAW, 22mm, f/2.8, 1/100, ISO 320. #railroad #railroads #train, #trains #bestphoto #soldphoto #railway #railway #soldtrainphotos #steamtrains #railtransport #railroadengines #picturesoftrains #picturesofrailways #besttrainphotograph #bestphoto #photographyoftrains #steamtrainphotography #soldpicture #bestsoldpicture #JimPearsonPhotography #CumbresandToltecScenicRailroad

Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad steam locomotive D&RGW 463 as makes its way through the Lava Curve

The glow of the morning sun illuminates the behind Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad steam locomotive D&RGW 463 as makes its way through the Lava Curve with a freight train on the way to Osier, Colorado, during a photo charter by Dak Dillon Photography on October 19th, 2023.

According to their website: the Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad is a National Historic Landmark. At 64-miles in length, it is the longest, the highest and most authentic steam railroad in North America, traveling through some of the most spectacular scenery in the Rocky Mountain West.

Owned by the states of Colorado and New Mexico, the train crosses state borders 11 times, zigzagging along canyon walls, burrowing through two tunnels, and steaming over 137-foot Cascade Trestle. All trains steam along through deep forests of aspens and evergreens, across high plains filled with wildflowers, and through a rocky gorge of remarkable geologic formations. Deer, antelope, elk, fox, eagles and even bear are frequently spotted on this family friendly, off-the grid adventure.

According to History Colorado Website: Built in 1903 by the Baldwin Locomotive Works of Philadelphia, Engine No. 463 is one of only two remaining locomotives of the K-27 series originally built for and operated by the Denver & Rio Grande Western Railroad.

The K-27 series was a departure from the design most prevalent on Colorado’s narrow-gauge lines, resulting in a locomotive with one and one-half times more power. The arrival of this series marked a significant turning point in the operation of the D&RGW’s narrow gauge lines that was to remain in effect until the end of Class I narrow gauge steam locomotion in 1968. The Friends of the Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad restored the engine to operating condition.

Tech Info: DJI Mavic 3 Classic Drone, RAW, 22mm, f/2.8, 1/100, ISO 320.

Paducah and Louisville Railway 2013 University of Louisville locomotive brings up the rear as the DPU on a northbound loaded Louisville, Gas and Electric coal train just south of Pond River out of Madisonville, Kentucky, on August 26th, 2025. According to Wikipedia: The Paducah & Louisville Railway (reporting mark PAL) is a Class II railroad that operates freight service between Paducah and Louisville, Kentucky. The line is located entirely within the Commonwealth of Kentucky. The 270-mile (430 km) line was purchased from Illinois Central Gulf Railroad in August of 1986. Tech Info:4K Video Frame Grab from a DJI Mavic 3 Classic Drone #railroad #railroads #train, #trains #railway #railway #steamtrains #railtransport #railroadengines #picturesoftrains #picturesofrailways #besttrainphotograph #bestphoto #photographyoftrains #bestsoldpicture #JimPearsonPhotography #trainsfromtheair #trainsfromadrone #paducahandlouisvillerailway

Paducah and Louisville Railway 2013 University of Louisville locomotive brings up the rear as the DPU

Paducah and Louisville Railway 2013 University of Louisville locomotive brings up the rear as the DPU on a northbound loaded Louisville, Gas and Electric coal train just south of Pond River out of Madisonville, Kentucky, on August 26th, 2025.

According to Wikipedia: The Paducah & Louisville Railway (reporting mark PAL) is a Class II railroad that operates freight service between Paducah and Louisville, Kentucky. The line is located entirely within the Commonwealth of Kentucky.

The 270-mile (430 km) line was purchased from Illinois Central Gulf Railroad in August of 1986.

Tech Info:4K Video Frame Grab from a DJI Mavic 3 Classic Drone

CSXT 1981 Pan Am Railways Heritage Unit leads northbound M512 as they wait on the main for southbound I129 to take the siding at Slaughters, Kentucky, on September 25th, 2025, on the CSX Henderson Subdivision. According to a CSXT Press Release: November 25, 2024 – CSX has unveiled locomotive No. 1981, the final installment in its series of heritage locomotives, honoring Pan Am Railways. The unit is the 21st and final creation by the Waycross Paint Shop to celebrate the predecessor railroads that form today’s CSX network. Pan Am Railways, formerly known as Guilford Transportation, was established in 1981 and operated across northern New England, spanning from Maine to New York. It joined the CSX family in 2022 following a purchase agreement. The heritage series required extra care and precision, according to CSX carman painter Albert Bussey. “It’s always special working on the heritage units,” Bussey said. “Like always, we try to take a little bit of extra care and time in order to do these perfectly.” All 21 heritage units are not just displays of craftsmanship but active locomotives performing daily duties throughout CSX’s 26-state rail network. The dedication behind their creation reflects the artistry of the team at the Waycross Paint Shop. The completion of locomotive No. 1981 stands as a tribute to the history of Pan Am Railways and the pride shared by CSX employees. As CSX approaches its 200th anniversary in 2027, these heritage locomotives symbolize the company’s enduring legacy and its dedication to innovation and service. Tech Info: DJI Mavic 3 Classic Drone, RAW, 22mm, f/2.8, 1/1000, ISO 170 #railroad #railroads #train, #trains #railway #railway #railtransport #railroadengines #picturesoftrains #picturesofrailways #besttrainphotograph #bestphoto #photographyoftrains #bestsoldpicture #JimPearsonPhotography #trainsfromtheair #trainsfromadrone #onecsx #csx

CSXT 1981 Pan Am Railways Heritage Unit leads northbound M512 at Slaughters, Ky

CSXT 1981 Pan Am Railways Heritage Unit leads northbound M512 as they wait on the main for southbound I129 to take the siding at Slaughters, Kentucky, on September 25th, 2025, on the CSX Henderson Subdivision.

According to a CSXT Press Release: November 25, 2024 – CSX has unveiled locomotive No. 1981, the final installment in its series of heritage locomotives, honoring Pan Am Railways. The unit is the 21st and final creation by the Waycross Paint Shop to celebrate the predecessor railroads that form today’s CSX network.

Pan Am Railways, formerly known as Guilford Transportation, was established in 1981 and operated across northern New England, spanning from Maine to New York. It joined the CSX family in 2022 following a purchase agreement.

The heritage series required extra care and precision, according to CSX carman painter Albert Bussey. “It’s always special working on the heritage units,” Bussey said. “Like always, we try to take a little bit of extra care and time in order to do these perfectly.”

All 21 heritage units are not just displays of craftsmanship but active locomotives performing daily duties throughout CSX’s 26-state rail network. The dedication behind their creation reflects the artistry of the team at the Waycross Paint Shop.

The completion of locomotive No. 1981 stands as a tribute to the history of Pan Am Railways and the pride shared by CSX employees. As CSX approaches its 200th anniversary in 2027, these heritage locomotives symbolize the company’s enduring legacy and its dedication to innovation and service.

Tech Info: DJI Mavic 3 Classic Drone, RAW, 22mm, f/2.8, 1/1000, ISO 170

CSX I025 waits in the siding at Kelly, Ky with CSXT 3194 Law Enforcement Unit leading the way, on July 22nd, 2025, on the CSX Henderson Subdivision, as they wait for I128 NB to pass. From a CSXT Press Release: CSXT 3194 is being renamed to honor our nation’s police officers who dedicate their lives to serve and protect communities across our network. “CSX is proud of the employee craftsmanship involved in transforming this locomotive into a special commemorative engine,” says Ed Harris, executive vice president of operations. “This is a moving tribute to the men and women who serve us every day and aligns with CSX’s goal to connect military service members, first responders, and their families to the resources and support they need.” The Spirit of our Law Enforcement joins our collection of Pride in Service locomotives launched this spring - the Spirit of our Armed Forces and the Spirit of our First Responders. When not actively moving customers - freight, the locomotives are made available for special events along the CSX system - extending our culture of service and commitment from our customers to the communities where we operate. Tech Info: DJI Mavic 3 Classic Drone, RAW, 22mm, f/2.8, 1/2000, ISO 120. #railroad #railroads #train, #trains #railway #railway #steamtrains #railtransport #railroadengines #picturesoftrains #picturesofrailways #besttrainphotograph #bestphoto #photographyoftrains #bestsoldpicture #JimPearsonPhotography #trainsfromtheair #trainsfromadrone

CSX I025 waits in the siding at Kelly, Ky with CSXT 3194 Law Enforcement Unit leading the way

CSX I025 waits in the siding at Kelly, Ky with CSXT 3194 Law Enforcement Unit leading the way, on July 22nd, 2025, on the CSX Henderson Subdivision, as they wait for I128 NB to pass.

From a CSXT Press Release: CSXT 3194 is being renamed to honor our nation’s police officers who dedicate their lives to serve and protect communities across our network.

“CSX is proud of the employee craftsmanship involved in transforming this locomotive into a special commemorative engine,” says Ed Harris, executive vice president of operations. “This is a moving tribute to the men and women who serve us every day and aligns with CSX’s goal to connect military service members, first responders, and their families to the resources and support they need.”

The Spirit of our Law Enforcement joins our collection of Pride in Service locomotives launched this spring – the Spirit of our Armed Forces and the Spirit of our First Responders. When not actively moving customers – freight, the locomotives are made available for special events along the CSX system – extending our culture of service and commitment from our customers to the communities where we operate.

Tech Info: DJI Mavic 3 Classic Drone, RAW, 22mm, f/2.8, 1/2000, ISO 120.

CSXT 1981 Pan Am Railways Heritage Unit leads northbound M512 as they wait on the main for southbound I129 to take the siding at Slaughters, Kentucky, on September 25th, 2025, on the CSX Henderson Subdivision. According to a CSXT Press Release: November 25, 2024 – CSX has unveiled locomotive No. 1981, the final installment in its series of heritage locomotives, honoring Pan Am Railways. The unit is the 21st and final creation by the Waycross Paint Shop to celebrate the predecessor railroads that form today’s CSX network. Pan Am Railways, formerly known as Guilford Transportation, was established in 1981 and operated across northern New England, spanning from Maine to New York. It joined the CSX family in 2022 following a purchase agreement. The heritage series required extra care and precision, according to CSX carman painter Albert Bussey. “It’s always special working on the heritage units,” Bussey said. “Like always, we try to take a little bit of extra care and time in order to do these perfectly.” All 21 heritage units are not just displays of craftsmanship but active locomotives performing daily duties throughout CSX’s 26-state rail network. The dedication behind their creation reflects the artistry of the team at the Waycross Paint Shop. The completion of locomotive No. 1981 stands as a tribute to the history of Pan Am Railways and the pride shared by CSX employees. As CSX approaches its 200th anniversary in 2027, these heritage locomotives symbolize the company’s enduring legacy and its dedication to innovation and service. Tech Info: DJI Mavic 3 Classic Drone, RAW, 22mm, f/2.8, 1/500, ISO 120 #railroad #railroads #train, #trains #railway #railway #railtransport #railroadengines #picturesoftrains #picturesofrailways #besttrainphotograph #bestphoto #photographyoftrains #bestsoldpicture #JimPearsonPhotography #trainsfromtheair #trainsfromadrone #onecsx #csx

CSXT 1981 Pan Am Railways Heritage Unit leads northbound M512 at Slaughters, Ky

CSXT 1981 Pan Am Railways Heritage Unit leads northbound M512 as they wait on the main for southbound I129 to take the siding at Slaughters, Kentucky, on September 25th, 2025, on the CSX Henderson Subdivision.

According to a CSXT Press Release: November 25, 2024 – CSX has unveiled locomotive No. 1981, the final installment in its series of heritage locomotives, honoring Pan Am Railways. The unit is the 21st and final creation by the Waycross Paint Shop to celebrate the predecessor railroads that form today’s CSX network.

Pan Am Railways, formerly known as Guilford Transportation, was established in 1981 and operated across northern New England, spanning from Maine to New York. It joined the CSX family in 2022 following a purchase agreement.

The heritage series required extra care and precision, according to CSX carman painter Albert Bussey. “It’s always special working on the heritage units,” Bussey said. “Like always, we try to take a little bit of extra care and time in order to do these perfectly.”

All 21 heritage units are not just displays of craftsmanship but active locomotives performing daily duties throughout CSX’s 26-state rail network. The dedication behind their creation reflects the artistry of the team at the Waycross Paint Shop.

The completion of locomotive No. 1981 stands as a tribute to the history of Pan Am Railways and the pride shared by CSX employees. As CSX approaches its 200th anniversary in 2027, these heritage locomotives symbolize the company’s enduring legacy and its dedication to innovation and service.

Tech Info: DJI Mavic 3 Classic Drone, RAW, 22mm, f/2.8, 1/500, ISO 120

CSXT 1981 Pan Am Railways Heritage Unit leads M512 as they head north on track 2 at Romney, Nortonville, Kentucky, on September 25th, 2025, on the CSX Henderson Subdivision. According to a CSXT Press Release: November 25, 2024 – CSX has unveiled locomotive No. 1981, the final installment in its series of heritage locomotives, honoring Pan Am Railways. The unit is the 21st and final creation by the Waycross Paint Shop to celebrate the predecessor railroads that form today’s CSX network. Pan Am Railways, formerly known as Guilford Transportation, was established in 1981 and operated across northern New England, spanning from Maine to New York. It joined the CSX family in 2022 following a purchase agreement. The heritage series required extra care and precision, according to CSX carman painter Albert Bussey. “It’s always special working on the heritage units,” Bussey said. “Like always, we try to take a little bit of extra care and time in order to do these perfectly.” All 21 heritage units are not just displays of craftsmanship but active locomotives performing daily duties throughout CSX’s 26-state rail network. The dedication behind their creation reflects the artistry of the team at the Waycross Paint Shop. The completion of locomotive No. 1981 stands as a tribute to the history of Pan Am Railways and the pride shared by CSX employees. As CSX approaches its 200th anniversary in 2027, these heritage locomotives symbolize the company’s enduring legacy and its dedication to innovation and service. Tech Info: DJI Mavic 3 Classic Drone, RAW, 22mm, f/2.8, 1/1250, ISO 140 #railroad #railroads #train, #trains #railway #railway #railtransport #railroadengines #picturesoftrains #picturesofrailways #besttrainphotograph #bestphoto #photographyoftrains #bestsoldpicture #JimPearsonPhotography #trainsfromtheair #trainsfromadrone #onecsx #csx

CSXT 1981 Pan Am Railways Heritage Unit leads M512 as they head north on track 2 at Romney, Nortonville, Ky

CSXT 1981 Pan Am Railways Heritage Unit leads M512 as they head north on track 2 at Romney, Nortonville, Kentucky, on September 25th, 2025, on the CSX Henderson Subdivision.

According to a CSXT Press Release: November 25, 2024 – CSX has unveiled locomotive No. 1981, the final installment in its series of heritage locomotives, honoring Pan Am Railways. The unit is the 21st and final creation by the Waycross Paint Shop to celebrate the predecessor railroads that form today’s CSX network.

Pan Am Railways, formerly known as Guilford Transportation, was established in 1981 and operated across northern New England, spanning from Maine to New York. It joined the CSX family in 2022 following a purchase agreement.

The heritage series required extra care and precision, according to CSX carman painter Albert Bussey. “It’s always special working on the heritage units,” Bussey said. “Like always, we try to take a little bit of extra care and time in order to do these perfectly.”

All 21 heritage units are not just displays of craftsmanship but active locomotives performing daily duties throughout CSX’s 26-state rail network. The dedication behind their creation reflects the artistry of the team at the Waycross Paint Shop.

The completion of locomotive No. 1981 stands as a tribute to the history of Pan Am Railways and the pride shared by CSX employees. As CSX approaches its 200th anniversary in 2027, these heritage locomotives symbolize the company’s enduring legacy and its dedication to innovation and service.

Tech Info: DJI Mavic 3 Classic Drone, RAW, 22mm, f/2.8, 1/1250, ISO 140