Melissa Donovan
Brightline debuted its Freedom Express train on Monday in partnership with America250, the national nonpartisan organization established by Congress to celebrate the nation’s 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence.
The 10-coach train’s exterior is decorated with a patriotic wrap telling stories of significant moments in America’s history. Each coach focuses on a different moment in the country’s timeline, reflecting “national pride, progress and the people who move our communities forward.
The historic moments featured include:
- The Signing of the Declaration of Independence: The signing in 1776 established the United States as an independent nation.
- Washington Crossing the Delaware: Washington’s 1776 crossing helped shift the momentum of the Revolutionary War.
- Lincoln at Gettysburg: The 1863 Gettysburg Address delivered by Lincoln changed the way the country committed to equality and democracy.
- Golden Spike Ceremony: The 1869 Golden Spike Ceremony connected the nation through the introduction of the first transcontinental railroad.
- Statue of Liberty: Dedicated in 1886, the Statue of Liberty symbolizes freedom and welcoming.
- Ellis Island Immigration: From 1892 to 1954, Ellis Island welcomed millions of immigrants and shaped America’s identity.
- The Wright Brothers’ First Flight: In 1903, the Wright brothers flew the first powered flight, making the United States a leader in aviation.
- Flag Raising at Iwo Jima: The 1945 flag raising symbolized America’s sacrifice and victory in World War II.
- Martin Luther King Jr. at the Lincoln Memorial: The 1963 speech made by Dr. King at the Lincoln Memorial was another defining moment in the nation’s Civil Rights Movement.
- One Small Step. One Giant Leap: In 1969, Apollo 11 made history as the first mission to land humans on the Moon.
“America’s 250th anniversary is an opportunity to reflect on the moments that have shaped our nation and the people who continue to move it forward,” Jen Condon, Executive Vice President at America250, said in a press release. “Brightline’s Freedom Express offers a compelling way to share that history with communities across Florida, and we’re proud to partner with them to commemorate this milestone.”
The Freedom Express train will be running through July 2026, and to kick off the service, Brightline invited local community heroes for their inaugural ride on Monday from Orlando to Miami.
“Brightline is honored to help lead this national celebration and mark a pivotal moment in how America connects and moves,” Patrick Goddard, CEO of Brightline Florida, said. “This is one of the most meaningful and visually powerful train wraps yet, and we’re proud to share it with communities across the state of Florida.”
As the anniversary year continues, Brightline plans to partner with other organizations marking America’s 250th birthday, including HistoryMiami, which will offer guests the chance to see the original Bill of Rights.
For more information, visit Brightline’s official site.
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