NEW HAVEN FL9s Operating on the Cape Cod Central Railroad

In 1956, electrification of the New Haven Railroad's mainline ended in New Haven, not Boston as it does today. Due to this, they were seeking a dual-mode locomotive that could run from Grand Central under third rail power (where trains are required to under emissions regulations) all the way to Boston without a transfer. This task was no easy one for the Elcectro-Motive Division (EMD) of General Motors, and it took a few years to make. By 1960, 60 locomotives were produced and began running in service across the NH system. These one-of-a-kind engines transferred ownership several times throughout their lifetime but ultimately were retired by Metro-North railroad in 2009. Since then, it's been a bucket-lister item for us to see one in service. With the only local places operating them being the Naugatuck Railroad and Cape Cod Central, it's taken a little while. But finally while on a trip to the Cape, we ventured to Sandwich, MA to catch FL9s 2011 and 2026 still running strong after 65 years. Enjoy horns, dome cars, and most importantly, the New Haven Railroad's past glory (not to mention my personal favorite locomotive) in this spectacular video!
Taken July 26, 2024