From all outward appearances, this appears to be just another Chessie System freight train. In actuality, it was a one time experiment. Back in 1984, CSX influence was just being felt on the RF&P in Richmond. There wasn't any question CSX wanted to do two things. First, it wanted to partially abandon its Piedmont SD between Richmond and Doswell. Second, it wanted to get Automatic Train Control removed on the RF&P. This would allow CSX power to lead over the RF&P and all but eliminate changing locomotives. Permission was granted from the FRA to run CSX No. 794 from Doswell to Richmond without ATC for one trip only. CSX No. 794, heavy with rock from the quarry at Verdon, is seen passing through Hunton, VA on the RF&P on May 5, 1984. As it turned out, the Piedmont SD was never abandoned and is now part of the Buckingham Branch Railroad. RF&P (and CSX) were never allowed to removed the ATC. The tragic Amtrak collision at Chase, MD removed any hope of that ever happening.
