You know I’m gearing up for my annual CPKC Holiday Train chase. Already planning my shooting spots and “wish list” destinations.
And this year’s Holiday Train decorations will feature a tribute to another holiday locomotive.
I shall explain.
While the CPKC Holiday Train operates through the northern half of North America, the Kansas City Southern railroad offered its own holiday locomotive and rolling stock – the KCS Holiday Express. And boy, is it a beaut.
Say hello to Rudy. That’s the KCS Holiday Express’ nickname.
Like the Holiday Train I follow, the KCS Holiday Express is a charity fundraiser, mostly for the Salvation Army and other charities. And wow is that train beautiful.
And when KCS and Canadian Pacific merged into CPKC, both holiday locomotives continued to operate in their various routes.
But 2024 became the last run for Rudy, as this year’s run will have the CPKC Holiday Train travel into former KCS territories, with Rudy enjoying a comfortable retirement.
But retirement does not mean erasure.
For the CPKC Holiday Train this year will feature Rudy on its rolling stock during the train’s U.S. run.
And you can see the CPKC yardworkers recreating Rudy’s smile and body in ribbon lights.
I mean, it’s right here on CPKC’s Instagram page.
That is so cool.
Checking calendar. Only about five weeks left before it’s time to chase a train.
And a train on a train.
Chuck The Writer 