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Diesel Electric Locomotive #52
Engine #52 is the most recent addition to our stable. #52 was built by the Vulcan Iron Works in Wilkes-Berry Pennsylvania in 1953. It is a 65ton center cab diesel electric locomotive. #52 was built for Pennsylvania Power and Light in 1953 as their number 3347. Last in service at PP&L at their Martins Creek, PA location, the locomotive became surplus to them after that plant was converted from coal to natural gas. #52 is somewhat rare as locomotives go, since the Vulcan Iron works only constructed 54 diesel locomotives over 25tons. #52 was purchased by the WGHSEA in December of 2010. #52 is used as a backup for #643, and also will operate as primary passenger power on certain dates. #52 is available to be run by the general public as part of our Run a Locomotive program.
Diesel Mechanical #8
Engine #8 was built by the Whitcomb Locomotive Company in 1953. It is a class 25DM diesel mechanical locomotive. #8 was among the last locomotives built under the Whitcomb name. Whitcomb, long a division of the Baldwin Locomotive Works, ceased production of locomotives under their own name in December of 1953. Built for Pennsylvania Power and Light as their number #E129. At one point #8 was setup for radio control, although this system has long since been removed. E129 was purchased by the Williams Grove Historical Steam Engine Association in the 1980’s and renumbered to #8. #8 is used mainly for switching and track work, but does see limited use in passenger service. From 2001-2006 #8 was our primary locomotive while our steam locomotive #643, was out of service. In the 1990s #8 received an extensive rebuild that included the installation of a larger more powerful Cummins diesel engine that replaced the original Caterpillar.
Pennsylvania Railroad 643's 125th Birthday Celebration
Locomotive 643's Birthday Celebration on June 20, 2026 brought together community leaders, supporters, and guests to commemorate another milestone in the historic locomotive's preservation and service. The ceremony began with a welcome and words of appreciation for attendees, followed by the National Anthem performed by Jason Roach.
The program recognized several individuals and businesses for their contributions to the railroad operations, 643's success and the preservation of local history. Monroe Township presented its Monroe Proud Award, and representatives highlighted the significance of the America 250 initiative as the nation prepares to celebrate its 250th anniversary.
​Additional honors included a Certificate of Recognition from Cumberland County by commissioner Eichelberger, a special presentation to Bill Medlin, and a Train Award recognizing dedication to the railroad and its mission. Laura Delaney presented a certificate from The Cumberland Area Economic Development Corporation and shared remarks on the economic and tourism impact WGHSEA has in the region.
State legislative recognition was presented through a citation from Senator Greg Rothman and Representative Dawn Keefer. Guests also received an update on the Carousel House project and joined in honoring Jim Richwine for his contributions and service.
The ceremony concluded with a scholarship presentation recognizing future generations and ended on a patriotic note with a performance of "America the Beautiful," celebrating both the locomotive's legacy and America.
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