Kindling the Spirit of 2026: Freedom Trains Past and Present

As America prepares for its 250th anniversary, a restored Freedom Train will once again inspire the nation.

The American Freedom Train stops at Truckee, Calif., for Thanksgiving morning on November 27, 1975. Drew Jacksich/CC BY-SA 2.0

With celebrations marking America’s 250th anniversary set to begin, let’s revisit the 1976 Bicentennial American Freedom Train as well as the original Freedom Train that inspired it.

Freedom Trains have been a powerful symbol of America’s shared heritage. Soon after World War II, these trains began “bringing the nation’s history to the nation.” Historical artifacts and documents traveled to cities across America, reigniting a sense of national pride. From the original Freedom Train to the Bicentennial American Freedom Train in 1976, the goal has been to both educate Americans and instill a sense of pride in their shared heritage.

The Train That Started It All

In the wake of World War II, the first Freedom Train sought to rekindle patriotism in a country wearied by war. By showcasing America’s foundational documents—such as Thomas Jefferson’s draft of the Declaration of Independence and George Washington’s copy of the Constitution—the train reinforced that America’s sacrifices had not been in vain. Americans could be inspired by their unique place in history and appreciate how their personal struggles had preserved a nation.