CSX Heritage & Speciality Locomotives – Jim Pearson Photography

CSX I025 heads south at Breton, Kentucky as CSX Monon Heritage Unit 1897 leads

CSX I025 heads south at Breton, Kentucky as CSX Monon Heritage Unit 1897 leads it under dark threatening skies on April 2nd, 2025, on the CSX Henderson Subdivision. The eleven autoracks behind the engine are loaded with Tesla’s bound for Florida and overseas market from what I’m told.

Capturing this engine means I’ve caught all of CSX’s Heritage units except for the Georgia Heritage Unit, and that one is only a matter of time!

According to a CSX Press Release: January 26, 2024 – In a tribute to its rich railroad history, CSX has unveiled its Monon 1897 heritage locomotive, marking the ninth release its ongoing heritage series honoring the company’s predecessor railroads.

“The Monon Railroad ran from Chicago down to Louisville but most of it was in Indiana,” explained CSX Carman Jason Merritt, who assisted with the heritage project. “Eventually it merged with the Louisville and Nashville Lines and was later absorbed by CSX.”

The new heritage locomotive emerges fresh from the Class I railroad’s paint shop in Waycross, Ga., showcasing a blend of modern and historic aesthetics. The design features the modern CSX design on the head end, transitioning seamlessly into the historic paint scheme and logo of the Monon line. This style reflects the approach taken with previous installations in the CSX heritage series, which often feature the current CSX paint scheme on the nose and the predecessor’s scheme on the body.

“A lot of hard work and planning goes into each project,” said Merritt. “We want to get these right, so we take pride in what we do, from the wash rack to moving them out the door.”

The new Monon heritage locomotive is a testament to the enduring legacy of America’s railroads. It stands as a symbol of the past while simultaneously pointing towards the future, embodying the spirit of evolution and innovation that drives CSX.

Tech Info: DJI Mavic 3 Classic Drone, RAW, 22mm, f/2.8, 1/2500, ISO 140.

CSX I025 heads south at Hanson, Kentucky as CSX Monon Heritage Unit 1897 at Hanson, Ky

CSX I025 heads south at Hanson, Kentucky as CSX Monon Heritage Unit 1897 leads it under dark threatening skies on April 2nd, 2025, on the CSX Henderson Subdivision. The eleven autoracks behind the engine are loaded with Tesla’s bound for Florida and overseas market from what I’m told.

Capturing this engine means I’ve caught all of CSX’s Heritage units except for the Georgia Heritage Unit, and that one is only a matter of time!

According to a CSX Press Release: January 26, 2024 – In a tribute to its rich railroad history, CSX has unveiled its Monon 1897 heritage locomotive, marking the ninth release its ongoing heritage series honoring the company’s predecessor railroads.

“The Monon Railroad ran from Chicago down to Louisville but most of it was in Indiana,” explained CSX Carman Jason Merritt, who assisted with the heritage project. “Eventually it merged with the Louisville and Nashville Lines and was later absorbed by CSX.”

The new heritage locomotive emerges fresh from the Class I railroad’s paint shop in Waycross, Ga., showcasing a blend of modern and historic aesthetics. The design features the modern CSX design on the head end, transitioning seamlessly into the historic paint scheme and logo of the Monon line. This style reflects the approach taken with previous installations in the CSX heritage series, which often feature the current CSX paint scheme on the nose and the predecessor’s scheme on the body.

“A lot of hard work and planning goes into each project,” said Merritt. “We want to get these right, so we take pride in what we do, from the wash rack to moving them out the door.”

The new Monon heritage locomotive is a testament to the enduring legacy of America’s railroads. It stands as a symbol of the past while simultaneously pointing towards the future, embodying the spirit of evolution and innovation that drives CSX.

Tech Info: Nikon D810, RAW, Nikon, 10-24mm @ 13mm, f/3.8, 1/1600, ISO 90.

CSX I128, with the New York Central heritage 1877 unit leading at Nortonville, Kentucky as it heads north on the CSX Henderson Subdivision, on April 11th, 2025.

According to the CSX Website: January 3, 2024 – A CSX locomotive commemorating the New York Central Railroad has become the eighth unit in CSX’s heritage locomotive fleet.

Designated CSX 1853 in recognition of the year the NYC was founded, the newest heritage unit was repainted in a special design combining the current CSX colors with the traditional gray and white of the NYC system. The NYC heritage unit has been placed into regular revenue service, proudly carrying the NYC colors across the CSX network.

All of the heritage unit paint schemes have been created at the CSX Waycross Locomotive Shop, where employees performed the challenging work of applying the unique designs. Click below to watch a video of CSX 1853 rolling out of the Waycross shop and hear employees describe the 22-day effort to repaint the unit.

At its height, the New York Central system encompassed more than 11,000 track miles and provided vital transportation service between New England and the Midwest. It merged with the Pennsylvania Railroad to become the Penn Central in 1968 and later became part of Conrail.

A majority of former NYC lines were acquired by CSX in 1998, and today CSX employees continue to operate trains across the primary NYC routes that have been carrying freight and supporting the U.S. economy for more than a century.

Tech Info: DJI Mavic 3 Classic Drone, RAW, 24mm, f/2.8, 1/2500, ISO 140.

#railroad #railroads #train, #trains #railway #railway #railtransport #railroadengines #picturesoftrains #picturesofrailways #besttrainphotograph #bestphoto #photographyoftrains #bestsoldpicture #JimPearsonPhotography #trainsfromadrone #csxhendersonsubdivision #onecsx #csxheritageunits

CSX I128, with the New York Central heritage 1853 unit leading at Nortonville, Kentucky

CSX I128, with the New York Central heritage 1853 unit leading at Nortonville, Kentucky as it heads north on the CSX Henderson Subdivision, on April 11th, 2025.

According to the CSX Website: January 3, 2024 – A CSX locomotive commemorating the New York Central Railroad has become the eighth unit in CSX’s heritage locomotive fleet.

Designated CSX 1853 in recognition of the year the NYC was founded, the newest heritage unit was repainted in a special design combining the current CSX colors with the traditional gray and white of the NYC system. The NYC heritage unit has been placed into regular revenue service, proudly carrying the NYC colors across the CSX network.

All of the heritage unit paint schemes have been created at the CSX Waycross Locomotive Shop, where employees performed the challenging work of applying the unique designs. Click below to watch a video of CSX 1853 rolling out of the Waycross shop and hear employees describe the 22-day effort to repaint the unit.

At its height, the New York Central system encompassed more than 11,000 track miles and provided vital transportation service between New England and the Midwest. It merged with the Pennsylvania Railroad to become the Penn Central in 1968 and later became part of Conrail.

A majority of former NYC lines were acquired by CSX in 1998, and today CSX employees continue to operate trains across the primary NYC routes that have been carrying freight and supporting the U.S. economy for more than a century.

Tech Info: DJI Mavic 3 Classic Drone, RAW, 24mm, f/2.8, 1/2500, ISO 140.

CSX I128, with the New York Central heritage 1877 unit leading passes the north signals at Hanson, Kentucky as it heads north on the CSX Henderson Subdivision, on April 11th, 2025.

According to the CSX Website: January 3, 2024 – A CSX locomotive commemorating the New York Central Railroad has become the eighth unit in CSX’s heritage locomotive fleet.

Designated CSX 1853 in recognition of the year the NYC was founded, the newest heritage unit was repainted in a special design combining the current CSX colors with the traditional gray and white of the NYC system. The NYC heritage unit has been placed into regular revenue service, proudly carrying the NYC colors across the CSX network.

All of the heritage unit paint schemes have been created at the CSX Waycross Locomotive Shop, where employees performed the challenging work of applying the unique designs. Click below to watch a video of CSX 1853 rolling out of the Waycross shop and hear employees describe the 22-day effort to repaint the unit.

At its height, the New York Central system encompassed more than 11,000 track miles and provided vital transportation service between New England and the Midwest. It merged with the Pennsylvania Railroad to become the Penn Central in 1968 and later became part of Conrail.

A majority of former NYC lines were acquired by CSX in 1998, and today CSX employees continue to operate trains across the primary NYC routes that have been carrying freight and supporting the U.S. economy for more than a century.

Tech Info: DJI Mavic 3 Classic Drone, RAW, 24mm, f/2.8, 1/1250, ISO 150.

#railroad #railroads #train, #trains #railway #railway #railtransport #railroadengines #picturesoftrains #picturesofrailways #besttrainphotograph #bestphoto #photographyoftrains #bestsoldpicture #JimPearsonPhotography #trainsfromadrone #csxhendersonsubdivision #onecsx #csxheritageunits

CSX I128, with the New York Central heritage 1853 unit leading passes the north signals at Hanson, Kentucky

CSX I128, with the New York Central heritage 1853 unit leading passes the north signals at Hanson, Kentucky as it heads north on the CSX Henderson Subdivision, on April 11th, 2025.

According to the CSX Website: January 3, 2024 – A CSX locomotive commemorating the New York Central Railroad has become the eighth unit in CSX’s heritage locomotive fleet.

Designated CSX 1853 in recognition of the year the NYC was founded, the newest heritage unit was repainted in a special design combining the current CSX colors with the traditional gray and white of the NYC system. The NYC heritage unit has been placed into regular revenue service, proudly carrying the NYC colors across the CSX network.

All of the heritage unit paint schemes have been created at the CSX Waycross Locomotive Shop, where employees performed the challenging work of applying the unique designs. Click below to watch a video of CSX 1853 rolling out of the Waycross shop and hear employees describe the 22-day effort to repaint the unit.

At its height, the New York Central system encompassed more than 11,000 track miles and provided vital transportation service between New England and the Midwest. It merged with the Pennsylvania Railroad to become the Penn Central in 1968 and later became part of Conrail.

A majority of former NYC lines were acquired by CSX in 1998, and today CSX employees continue to operate trains across the primary NYC routes that have been carrying freight and supporting the U.S. economy for more than a century.

Tech Info: DJI Mavic 3 Classic Drone, RAW, 24mm, f/2.8, 1/1250, ISO 150.

CSX I025 passes under the Sub Station Road overpass at the south end of Kelly, Ky with the CSX Monon Heritage Unit

CSX I025 passes under the Sub Station Road overpass at the south end of Kelly, Kentucky as CSX Monon Heritage Unit 1897 leads it southbound under dark threatening skies on April 2nd, 2025, on the CSX Henderson Subdivision. The eleven autoracks behind the engine are loaded with Tesla’s bound for Florida and overseas market from what I’m told.

Capturing this engine means I’ve caught all of CSX’s Heritage units except for the Georgia Heritage Unit, and that one is only a matter of time!

According to a CSX Press Release: January 26, 2024 – In a tribute to its rich railroad history, CSX has unveiled its Monon 1897 heritage locomotive, marking the ninth release its ongoing heritage series honoring the company’s predecessor railroads.

“The Monon Railroad ran from Chicago down to Louisville but most of it was in Indiana,” explained CSX Carman Jason Merritt, who assisted with the heritage project. “Eventually it merged with the Louisville and Nashville Lines and was later absorbed by CSX.”

The new heritage locomotive emerges fresh from the Class I railroad’s paint shop in Waycross, Ga., showcasing a blend of modern and historic aesthetics. The design features the modern CSX design on the head end, transitioning seamlessly into the historic paint scheme and logo of the Monon line. This style reflects the approach taken with previous installations in the CSX heritage series, which often feature the current CSX paint scheme on the nose and the predecessor’s scheme on the body.

Tech Info: DJI Mavic 3 Classic Drone, RAW, 22mm, f/2.8, 1/1600, ISO 100.

CSX I025 heads south at Crofton, Kentucky as CSX Monon Heritage Unit 1897 leads

CSX I025 heads south at Crofton, Kentucky as CSX Monon Heritage Unit 1897 leads it under dark threatening skies on April 2nd, 2025, on the CSX Henderson Subdivision. The eleven autoracks behind the engine are loaded with Tesla’s bound for Florida and overseas market from what I’m told.

Capturing this engine means I’ve caught all of CSX’s Heritage units except for the Georgia Heritage Unit, and that one is only a matter of time!

According to a CSX Press Release: January 26, 2024 – In a tribute to its rich railroad history, CSX has unveiled its Monon 1897 heritage locomotive, marking the ninth release its ongoing heritage series honoring the company’s predecessor railroads.

“The Monon Railroad ran from Chicago down to Louisville but most of it was in Indiana,” explained CSX Carman Jason Merritt, who assisted with the heritage project. “Eventually it merged with the Louisville and Nashville Lines and was later absorbed by CSX.”

The new heritage locomotive emerges fresh from the Class I railroad’s paint shop in Waycross, Ga., showcasing a blend of modern and historic aesthetics. The design features the modern CSX design on the head end, transitioning seamlessly into the historic paint scheme and logo of the Monon line. This style reflects the approach taken with previous installations in the CSX heritage series, which often feature the current CSX paint scheme on the nose and the predecessor’s scheme on the body.

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

CSX I025 heads south through Mortons Junction at Mortons Gap, Kentucky as CSX Monon Heritage Unit

CSX I025 heads south through Mortons Junction at Mortons Gap, Kentucky as CSX Monon Heritage Unit 1897 leads it under dark threatening skies on April 2nd, 2025, on the CSX Henderson Subdivision. The eleven autoracks behind the engine are loaded with Tesla’s bound for Florida and overseas market from what I’m told.

Capturing this engine means I’ve caught all of CSX’s Heritage units except for the Georgia Heritage Unit, and that one is only a matter of time!

According to a CSX Press Release: January 26, 2024 – In a tribute to its rich railroad history, CSX has unveiled its Monon 1897 heritage locomotive, marking the ninth release its ongoing heritage series honoring the company’s predecessor railroads.

“The Monon Railroad ran from Chicago down to Louisville but most of it was in Indiana,” explained CSX Carman Jason Merritt, who assisted with the heritage project. “Eventually it merged with the Louisville and Nashville Lines and was later absorbed by CSX.”

The new heritage locomotive emerges fresh from the Class I railroad’s paint shop in Waycross, Ga., showcasing a blend of modern and historic aesthetics. The design features the modern CSX design on the head end, transitioning seamlessly into the historic paint scheme and logo of the Monon line. This style reflects the approach taken with previous installations in the CSX heritage series, which often feature the current CSX paint scheme on the nose and the predecessor’s scheme on the body.

Tech Info: DJI Mavic 3 Classic Drone, RAW, 22mm, f/2.8, 1/2500, ISO 150.

CSX I025 heads south at Breton, Kentucky as CSX Monon Heritage Unit 1897 at Breton, Ky

CSX I025 heads south at Breton, Kentucky as CSX Monon Heritage Unit 1897 leads it under dark threatening skies on April 2nd, 2025, on the CSX Henderson Subdivision. The eleven autoracks behind the engine are loaded with Tesla’s bound for Florida and overseas market from what I’m told.

Capturing this engine means I’ve caught all of CSX’s Heritage units except for the Georgia Heritage Unit, and that one is only a matter of time!

According to a CSX Press Release: January 26, 2024 – In a tribute to its rich railroad history, CSX has unveiled its Monon 1897 heritage locomotive, marking the ninth release its ongoing heritage series honoring the company’s predecessor railroads.

“The Monon Railroad ran from Chicago down to Louisville but most of it was in Indiana,” explained CSX Carman Jason Merritt, who assisted with the heritage project. “Eventually it merged with the Louisville and Nashville Lines and was later absorbed by CSX.”

The new heritage locomotive emerges fresh from the Class I railroad’s paint shop in Waycross, Ga., showcasing a blend of modern and historic aesthetics. The design features the modern CSX design on the head end, transitioning seamlessly into the historic paint scheme and logo of the Monon line. This style reflects the approach taken with previous installations in the CSX heritage series, which often feature the current CSX paint scheme on the nose and the predecessor’s scheme on the body.

“A lot of hard work and planning goes into each project,” said Merritt. “We want to get these right, so we take pride in what we do, from the wash rack to moving them out the door.”

The new Monon heritage locomotive is a testament to the enduring legacy of America’s railroads. It stands as a symbol of the past while simultaneously pointing towards the future, embodying the spirit of evolution and innovation that drives CSX.

Tech Info: DJI Mavic 3 Classic Drone, RAW, 22mm, f/2.8, 1/2000, ISO 130.

Seaboard System Heritage Unit leading CSX M500 north across Gum Lick Trestle at Kelly, Kentucky

This is the shot that almost wasn’t! One of the critical things about drone photography is timing and sometimes it doesn’t go as planned! When I pressed the shutter for this photo the Seaboard System unit was places where the nose of the trailing unit is at.

There’s always a delay between the time you shoot the picture unit the drone receives the signal to shoot, and that difference always seems to depend on distance and lay of the land.

I always have my drone set to do a burst of 7 images and normally the one of the shots are right where I want it. In this shot of the Seaboard System Heritage Unit leading CSX M500 north across Gum Lick Trestle at Kelly, Kentucky, on March 28th, 2025, on the CSX Henderson Subdivision; this is the first image on the drone. All the other six, after it the engine was cut off! It’s a bit tighter than I like but it works.

Tech Info: DJI Mavic 3 Classic Drone, RAW, 22mm, f/2.8, 1/1250, ISO 120.

CSX Presidents Special southbound on the Henderson Subdivision

CSX Presidents Passenger train P001 heads south up the viaduct approaching the bridge over the Ohio River at Henderson, Ky from Evansville, IN, with CSX Gevo units 3310, 3271 leading and CSXT 1 & 2 trailing as they pull 11 cars at a little over 1,000 ft long. Not sure, but I heard they had problems with PTC on CSXT 1 & 2 and thats why they had to put the Gevos on the front on June 10th, 2021.

CSX has repainted two of its F40PH locomotives, to be used on its business train, into predecessor Baltimore & Ohio's blue, gray, and black paint scheme. CSX1 is former 9998 (former Amtrak 288) and from what I can find out CSXT 2 is the former F40PH 9993 (former Amtrak 395) but cant really confirm it for sure. The other F40s are expected to be painted in the same scheme in the coming months as they are cycled through the shops.

Tech Info: DJI Mavic Air 2 Drone, RAW, 4.5mm (24mm equivalent lens) f/2.8, 1/500, ISO 100.

#trainphotography #railroadphotography #trains #railways #dronephotography #jimpearsonphotography

CSX President’s Special southbound on the Henderson Subdivision at Rahm, Indiana

CSX President,s Passenger train P001 heads south up the viaduct approaching the bridge over the Ohio River at Henderson, Ky from Evansville, IN, with CSX Gevo units 3310, 3271 leading and CSXT 1 & 2 trailing as they pull 11 cars at a little over 1,000 ft long. Not sure, but I heard they had problems with PTC on CSXT 1 & 2 and that’s why they had to put the Gevos on the front on June 10th, 2021.

CSX has repainted two of its F40PH locomotives, to be used on its business train, into predecessor Baltimore & Ohio’s blue, gray, and black paint scheme. CSX1 is former 9998 (former Amtrak 288) and from what I can find out CSXT 2 is the former F40PH 9993 (former Amtrak 395) but can’t really confirm it for sure. The other F40s are expected to be painted in the same scheme in the coming months as they are cycled through the shops.

Tech Info: DJI Mavic Air 2 Drone, RAW, 4.5mm (24mm equivalent lens) f/2.8, 1/500, ISO 100.

CSX E040 crosses over the Red River at Adams, TN with the We Are One CSX locomotive 4720 as a mid-train DPU

CSX E040 crosses over the Red River at Adams, TN with a combined empty coal and ethanol train (B622) and the We Are One CSX locomotive 4720 as a mid-train DPU on March 18th, 2025, on the CSX Henderson Subdivision. This is my first time catching this locomotive out in the wild and while I wish it had been leading but I’ll take what I can get! I totally love the look of this locomotive!

According to a CSX press release, January 14, 2025 – CSX has introduced the ONE CSX locomotive, a specially designed engine to symbolize the company’s commitment to fostering collaboration, inclusion, and mutual respect across its workforce.

“This locomotive celebrates our ONE CSX team and culture,” said CSX President and Chief Executive Officer Joe Hinrichs. “I am so proud to work with 23,000 members of our ONE CSX team every day to keep America moving.”

The locomotive’s vibrant design was created by Jody Cremeans, a Carman Painter at CSX’s mechanical shop in Huntington, West Virginia. Cremeans’ design reflects the company’s cultural pillars of valuing, appreciating, including, and respecting every individual within its organization. Employees at CSX’s Waycross, Georgia, mechanical shop brought the design to life, meticulously painting and polishing the locomotive to perfection.

Prominently displayed on the locomotive are the logos of 14 labor unions that represent CSX employees, reinforcing the company’s commitment to collaboration. This special detail of the locomotive further exemplifies CSX’s focus on working together to deliver exceptional customer service while ensuring every employee feels valued and connected.

“The ONE CSX cultural initiative has been a great way for management and craft employees to come together, to work together and to value each other,” explained Jon Guest, Assistant Superintendent at the CSX Waycross Terminal.

The ONE CSX locomotive serves as a rolling tribute to the importance of teamwork and mutual respect within the organization. For CSX, its success is directly tied to creating a workplace that fosters unity and celebrates each employee’s contributions.

The new locomotive stands as a testament to the power of shared purpose within the organization and represents CSX’s aspiration to continue building an inclusive and respectful workplace.

Tech Info: DJI Mavic 3 Classic Drone, RAW, 22mm, f/2.8, 1/1250, ISO 130.

CSX E040 waits at Guthrie, Ky with ethanol train (B622) and the We Are One CSX locomotive 4720

CSX E040 waits at Guthrie, Ky with ethanol train (B622) and the We Are One CSX locomotive 4720 as a mid-train DPU at Guthrie, Kentucky on March 18th, 2025, on the CSX Henderson Subdivision. This is my first time catching this locomotive out in the wild and while I wish it had been leading but I’ll take what I can get! I totally love the look of this locomotive!

According to a CSX press release, January 14, 2025 – CSX has introduced the ONE CSX locomotive, a specially designed engine to symbolize the company’s commitment to fostering collaboration, inclusion, and mutual respect across its workforce.

“This locomotive celebrates our ONE CSX team and culture,” said CSX President and Chief Executive Officer Joe Hinrichs. “I am so proud to work with 23,000 members of our ONE CSX team every day to keep America moving.”

The locomotive’s vibrant design was created by Jody Cremeans, a Carman Painter at CSX’s mechanical shop in Huntington, West Virginia. Cremeans’ design reflects the company’s cultural pillars of valuing, appreciating, including, and respecting every individual within its organization. Employees at CSX’s Waycross, Georgia, mechanical shop brought the design to life, meticulously painting and polishing the locomotive to perfection.

Prominently displayed on the locomotive are the logos of 14 labor unions that represent CSX employees, reinforcing the company’s commitment to collaboration. This special detail of the locomotive further exemplifies CSX’s focus on working together to deliver exceptional customer service while ensuring every employee feels valued and connected.

“The ONE CSX cultural initiative has been a great way for management and craft employees to come together, to work together and to value each other,” explained Jon Guest, Assistant Superintendent at the CSX Waycross Terminal.

The ONE CSX locomotive serves as a rolling tribute to the importance of teamwork and mutual respect within the organization. For CSX, its success is directly tied to creating a workplace that fosters unity and celebrates each employee’s contributions.

The new locomotive stands as a testament to the power of shared purpose within the organization and represents CSX’s aspiration to continue building an inclusive and respectful workplace.

Tech Info: DJI Mavic 3 Classic Drone, RAW, 22mm, f/2.8, 1/1600, ISO 130.

CSX Heritage Units, L&N 1850 and NYC 1853 lead CSX I026-22 north at Nortonville, Ky

CSX Heritage Units, L&N 1850 and NYC 1853 lead CSX I026-22 as they head into the S curve at Nortonville, Kentucky as they make their way north at dusk, on the Henderson Subdivision on March 22nd, 2025.

According to CSXT: CSX has introduced the sixth and eighth locomotives in its heritage series, a freshly painted unit honoring the Louisville & Nashville Railroad. Designated CSX 1850, the locomotive will be placed into service, carrying the L&N colors across the 20,000-mile CSX network.

Designated CSX 1853 is in recognition of the year the NYC was founded; this heritage unit was repainted in a special design combining the current CSX colors with the traditional gray and white of the NYC system.

The paint schemes were designed and applied at the CSX Locomotive Shop in Waycross, Georgia, which has produced all units in the heritage series celebrating the lines that came together to form the modern CSX. Like the other heritage locomotives, these units combine the heritage railroads iconic logo and colors on the rear two-thirds of the engine with today’s CSX colors and markings on the cab end.

Tech Info: DJI Mavic 3 Classic Drone, RAW, 22mm, f/2.8, 1/500, ISO 800.

CSX M647 heads southbound as it passes combined coal (E040) and ethanol train (B622) with the We Are One CSX locomotive 4720 as a mid-train DPU at Guthrie, Ky

CSX M647 heads southbound as it passes combined coal (E040) and ethanol train (B622) with the We Are One CSX locomotive 4720 as a mid-train DPU at Guthrie, Kentucky on March 18th, 2025, on the CSX Henderson Subdivision. This is my first time catching this locomotive out in the wild and while I wish it had been leading but I’ll take what I can get! I totally love the look of this locomotive!

According to a CSX press release, January 14, 2025 – CSX has introduced the ONE CSX locomotive, a specially designed engine to symbolize the company’s commitment to fostering collaboration, inclusion, and mutual respect across its workforce.

“This locomotive celebrates our ONE CSX team and culture,” said CSX President and Chief Executive Officer Joe Hinrichs. “I am so proud to work with 23,000 members of our ONE CSX team every day to keep America moving.”

The locomotive’s vibrant design was created by Jody Cremeans, a Carman Painter at CSX’s mechanical shop in Huntington, West Virginia. Cremeans’ design reflects the company’s cultural pillars of valuing, appreciating, including, and respecting every individual within its organization. Employees at CSX’s Waycross, Georgia, mechanical shop brought the design to life, meticulously painting and polishing the locomotive to perfection.

Prominently displayed on the locomotive are the logos of 14 labor unions that represent CSX employees, reinforcing the company’s commitment to collaboration. This special detail of the locomotive further exemplifies CSX’s focus on working together to deliver exceptional customer service while ensuring every employee feels valued and connected.

“The ONE CSX cultural initiative has been a great way for management and craft employees to come together, to work together and to value each other,” explained Jon Guest, Assistant Superintendent at the CSX Waycross Terminal.

The ONE CSX locomotive serves as a rolling tribute to the importance of teamwork and mutual respect within the organization. For CSX, its success is directly tied to creating a workplace that fosters unity and celebrates each employee’s contributions.

The new locomotive stands as a testament to the power of shared purpose within the organization and represents CSX’s aspiration to continue building an inclusive and respectful workplace.

Tech Info: DJI Mavic 3 Classic Drone, RAW, 22mm, f/2.8, 1/1250, ISO 150.

CSXT 1875 P&LE Heritage unit leads CSX G412 northbound at Mortons Junction in Mortons Gap, Ky

CSXT 1875 P&LE Heritage unit leads CSX G412 northbound at Mortons Junction in Mortons Gap, Ky, on March 3rd, 2025, on the CSX Henderson Subdivision.

According to a CSX Press Release: June 6, 2024 – CSX has released a new heritage locomotive, the P&LE 1875, paying tribute to the storied Pittsburgh & Lake Erie Railroad (P&LE). The 15th in CSX’s heritage locomotive series, this new addition to the company’s fleet not only celebrates the rich history of P&LE but also marks a significant milestone in CSX’s ongoing commitment to honoring the legacies of America’s historic railroads.

The Pittsburgh & Lake Erie Railroad was established in 1875 with a primary mission of transporting essential industrial materials such as coal, coke, iron ore, limestone, and steel among the bustling industrial hubs of the region.

“It’s mainline connected Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania with Youngstown, Ohio and Connellsville, Pennsylvania. It did not actually reach Lake Erie until 1976,” explained Tim Music, a carman painter at the CSX Waycross Locomotive Shop where the unit was produced.

Despite its relatively modest route mileage, the P&LE Railroad earned the nickname “Little Giant” due to the enormous volume of heavy tonnage it moved. This impressive capability drew significant attention and by 1887, the P&LE became a subsidiary of the dominant New York Central Railroad. Under this new ownership, the P&LE enjoyed substantial improvements to its tracks and added capacity for passenger services, further enhancing its regional significance.

Over time, P&LE expanded by leasing branches from smaller railroads. These extensions included lines southeast along the Monongahela River through Homestead and McKeesport, and along the Youghiogheny River to Connellsville, where it connected with the Western Maryland Railway.

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

March 1st, 2025 – Episode 113 – Railfanning from Trenton, Ky to Adams, TN

Saturday Edited Video from Jim Pearson Photography

In this week’s video I’m taking you on a tour of some of my favorite spots to railfan between Trenton, Ky and Adams, TN on the CSX Henderson Subdivision. Sit back, turn up the sound, expand to full screen and enjoy the trains!! Please like, share, subscribe and thanks for watching!

CSXT 1973, Chessie System Heritage Unit, leads CSX I025 at Red River, Adams, TN

CSXT 1973, Chessie System Heritage Unit, leads CSX I025 as it passes over the Red River Trestle just north of Adams, TN as it heads south on the CSX Henderson Subdivision, on February 14th, 2025.

According to Wikipedia: The three railroads that would make up the Chessie System had been closely related since the 1960s. C&O had acquired controlling interest in B&O in 1962, and the two had jointly controlled WM since 1967.

Chessie System, Inc. was a holding company that owned the Chesapeake and Ohio Railway (C&O), the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad (B&O), the Western Maryland Railway (WM), and Baltimore and Ohio Chicago Terminal Railroad (B&OCT). Trains operated under the Chessie name from 1973 to 1987.

On November 1, 1980, Chessie System merged with Seaboard Coastline Industries to form CSX Corporation. Initially, the three Chessie System railroads continued to operate separately, even after Seaboard’s six Family Lines System railroads were merged into the Seaboard System Railroad on December 29, 1982. That began to change in 1983, when the WM was merged into the B&O. The Chessie image continued to be applied to new and re-painted equipment until July 1, 1986, when CSXT introduced its own paint scheme. In April 1987, the B&O was merged into the C&O. In August 1987, C&O merged into CSX Transportation, a 1986 renaming of the Seaboard System Railroad, and the Chessie System name was retired.

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

CSXT 1981 PanAm Railway Heritage Unit leads G342 at Rankin, Ky

CSXT 1981 PanAm Railway Heritage Unit leads G342, under stormy skies, as it waits in the siding at the north end of Rankin, Kentucky for CSX I025 to pass, on February 15th, 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.

“I’ve been involved in all of the 21 units,” said CSX carman painter Clyde Marshall. “The work itself has really been enjoyable. The transformation of the units, from when they first arrive in the shop to the finished product, is very rewarding.

Marshall also noted the significance of connecting with railroad history through these projects. “It is an honor to learn about the history of these units, and the importance the railroad played in American history,” he added.

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, 24mm, f/2.8, 1/240, ISO 140

CSXT 1981 PanAm Railway Heritage Unit leads G342 northbound at Henderson, Kentucky

CSXT 1981 PanAm Railway Heritage Unit leads G342 northbound, under stormy skies, as it passes the old Louisville and Nashville Railway Depot at Henderson, on February 15th, 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.

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.

“I’ve been involved in all of the 21 units,” said CSX carman painter Clyde Marshall. “The work itself has really been enjoyable. The transformation of the units, from when they first arrive in the shop to the finished product, is very rewarding.

Marshall also noted the significance of connecting with railroad history through these projects. “It is an honor to learn about the history of these units, and the importance the railroad played in American history,” he added.

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, 24mm, f/2.8, 1/500, ISO 170

CSXT 1981 PanAm Railway Heritage Unit leads G342at the north end of Rankin, Kentucky