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Once the largest railroad in America, known as 'The Standard Railroad of the World.' Famous for the Tuscan Red paint scheme and GG1 electrics.
1846
Dissolved 1968
Northeast US
USA
10,000
Route miles
GG1 Electric
The Pennsylvania Railroad was once the largest publicly traded corporation in the world, earning its nickname "The Standard Railroad of the World." Founded in 1846 to connect Philadelphia with Pittsburgh, the PRR grew to become the dominant railroad in the northeastern United States.
The PRR was known for building its own locomotives, developing distinctive designs including the K4s Pacific, the T1 Duplex, and the legendary GG1 electric. The railroad's engineering standards were copied worldwide, and its four-track mainline between New York and Chicago was one of the most heavily traveled rail corridors ever built.
The railroad's Tuscan Red paint scheme, applied to passenger equipment and diesel locomotives, became iconic. The PRR keystone logo remains one of the most recognized railroad symbols in history.
The PRR merged with rival New York Central in 1968 to form Penn Central, which went bankrupt in 1970. Though gone for over 50 years, the Pennsy remains one of the most popular prototype choices for modelers, with manufacturers continuing to produce PRR-themed products.
1920s-1968
The signature dark red with gold pinstripes
1876-1920s
Earlier steam era scheme
1934-1968
Silver with red pinstripes for the Raymond Loewy-designed GG1s
Tuscan Red paint is difficult to match—use Floquil or Tru-Color brands designed for PRR
The K4s Pacific is essential for PRR steam operations
GG1 electrics require catenary if modeling realistically
PRR heavyweight passenger cars make impressive consists
The four-track mainline can be modeled as busy two-track with staging