Virginia and Truckee Railway Motor Car 22, National Historic Landmark railcar in Carson City, United States
The Virginia and Truckee Railway Motor Car 22 is a restored self-propelled passenger vehicle featuring a distinctive knife-edge front and porthole windows, housed at the Nevada State Railroad Museum. The railcar measures about 65 feet long and was designed to carry around 40 passengers in comfort.
The railcar was built from 1909 to 1910 by the McKeen Motor Car Company and operated on the Virginia and Truckee Railroad during the height of regional rail transport. Its design represented a major technological shift away from steam power toward internal combustion engines for passenger service.
This railcar represents an important shift in how people traveled in the early 1900s, moving away from traditional steam trains toward faster, self-propelled vehicles. It shows how local rail operators adapted to changing transportation needs by embracing new technology.
The railcar is displayed at the Nevada State Railroad Museum and can be viewed during special events and celebrations throughout the year. Visitors should check ahead for availability since demonstrations and rides typically happen on designated holidays and commemorative occasions.
During restoration, the original gasoline engine was replaced with a diesel engine to improve reliability and safety while keeping the exterior appearance authentic. This hidden upgrade demonstrates how museums balance historical authenticity with modern operational needs.
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