Explore the powerful history of African Americans on the railroad. From its earliest days, enslaved people helped build many of the country’s first railroads, especially in the South. Over time, the railroad played a role in the ongoing fight for African American equality—from the dark days of slavery and the Civil War, through segregation, and into the Civil Rights Movement. Using our rolling stock collection, we’ll trace the contributions, challenges, and triumphs of African Americans in railroading and reflect on their lasting impact on American history.
2026 Tour Dates:
- February 4, 2026 @ 11 AM
- February 7, 2026 @ 11 AM
- February 11, 2026 @ 11 AM
- February 14, 2026 @ 11 AM
- February 18, 2026 @ 11 AM
- February 21, 2026 @ 11 AM
- February 25, 2026 @ 11 AM
Admission:
Included with Museum Admission. Museum Members FREE.
Black History Month at the B&O!
B&O 3316 "Washington" Observation Tavern Car Unveiling
February 21, 11 AM
In celebration of Black History Month, the National Museum of Railroad History & Innovation unveils the newly restored Baltimore & Ohio Railroad No. 3316 “Washington,” a 1949 observation tavern car that represents the height of luxury rail travel and honors the African American railroad workers—especially Pullman Porters—who made that experience possible.
"From Slavery to Civil Rights" Public Tours
February 7, 11, 14, 18, 21 & 25, 11 AM
Explore the powerful history of African Americans on the railroad. From its earliest days, enslaved people helped build many of the country’s first railroads, especially in the South. Over time, the railroad played a role in the ongoing fight for African American equality—from the dark days of slavery and the Civil War, through segregation, and into the Civil Rights Movement. Using our rolling stock collection, we’ll trace the contributions, challenges, and triumphs of African Americans in railroading and reflect on their lasting impact on American history.
Storytime: "BOX: Henry Brown Mails Himself to Freedom"
February 16, 11 AM-Noon
Join us on President’s Day at the National Museum of Railroad History & Innovation as we welcome award-winning children’s author Carole Boston Weatherford for a live reading of her powerful picture book BOX: Henry Brown Mails Himself to Freedom. This program invites families and young readers alike to explore history through storytelling- highlighting courage, resilience, and ingenuity of Freedom Seekers. Don’t miss the chance to hear directly from the author, ask questions, and deepen your connection to this moving true story.
Underground Railroad Monoprint Workshop
February 17, 10 AM-Noon
Learn about the significance and connection the Underground Railroad had in Maryland via the B&O Railroad. Then, inspired by the Harlem Renaissance painter Aaron Douglas, students will create monoprint illustrations making thematic connections to the Freedom Seekers who used the Underground Railroad.
B&O Unlocked: B&O No. 3316 "Washington" Observation Tavern Car
February 25 & 26, March 1, 10 AM-4 PM
The National Museum of Railroad History & Innovation’s annual Unlocked series returns—this year with a special tribute to America’s 250th anniversary. In honor of Black History Month, we are unveiling the newly restored B&O No. 3316 observation lounge car – highlighting the great impacts railroading has had on Black history!
Upcoming Events at the Museum
WITH GENEROUS SUPPORT FROM:
“Baltimore's Child 2021 Readers' Choice Winner”
2021
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