During the nation's bicentennial year, 1976, many railroads chose to honor the country's birthday by painting one of their locomotives in a red, white and blue paint scheme. Southern Railway chose not to do this, but, instead, created a 10' x 2.5' banner for each of the 17 southern signers of the Declaration of Independence, and placed one on each of the 17 E8As assigned to the Southern Crescent. This image of the Southern Crescent, made in Atlanta during August 1976, shows each of the four Es with a banner. The train is northbound, approaching the Lindbergh Drive bridge, headed to Washington, D.C.
Displays of American pride, and spirit! Equipment painted Red, White, and Blue! With an honored salute and tribute to our veterans and troops added too! Patriots can still be found to join this gathering of Patriotic Pride!
