"The War Came by Train" Public Tour

Public Tour

On this tour we will uncover the story behind the first-time trains were used in warfare: the American Civil War. No one understood just how much of an impact the railroad would play into the Union’s ability to win the war until the war was over. 

Today we will explore not only the connection that many pieces in our collection have to the American Civil War but also the importance that the B&O Railroad itself had to the outcome of the war.

Admission:

Included with Admission. B&O Members FREE.

Current America 250 Events at the B&O

“The Underground Railroad: Freedom Seekers on the B&O” Public Tour

June 19 @ 10:30 AM & 1 PM

On this tour we will explore the history of the Underground Railroad using experiences of 27 documented freedom seekers who have interacted with the B&O Railroad on their journey to freedom.

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250th All-American Bash

July 4, 2026 @ 10 am-4 pm

There’s no better place to be for America’s 250th than the B&O!

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B&O Unlocked: AFT No. 1

July 4, 5, 18, & 19, 2026

We are re-unlocking the AFT No.1 in honor of Independence Day! The cosmetically restored “T-Hog” was just placed on display in January of this year. If you missed your chance to see it then, now is the time to check it out!

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Summer S.T.E.A.M. Week

August 17-21, 2026

Celebrate the inventors and engineers who helped build America! Explore the science, stories, and cool inventions that powered America’s railroads.

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American Freedom Tour

September 5, 6, & 7, 2026 @ 10 AM

Discover the powerful intersection of American history and the rise of railroading. Uncover how the railroad opened the door to freedom: freedom to prosper, freedom to explore, and freedom to pursue a new life.

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“Working on the Railroad: The B&O and the Labor Movement” Public Tour

September 7 @ 10:30 AM & 1 PM

This tour will explore the unique history of working for the railroad in America and the evolution of worker rights from the 19th to the 20th centuries, with particular focus on the employees of the B&O Railroad.

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“Maryland on the Rails: The B&O’s Contribution to Maryland History” Public Tour

October 12 @ 10:30 AM & 1 PM

This tour will examine how Maryland before 1827 became an ideal location for the B&O Railroad and as a result how the B&O Railroad has continued to contribute to the robust history of the state of Maryland.

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“Iron War Horses: B&O’s Support of American Troops Abroad” Public Tour

November 11 @ 10:30 AM & 1 PM

Explore the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad’s involvement in global conflicts like the Civil War, World War I, and World War II on this engaging and exciting tour of our historic collection.

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