November 25, 2024 – A vintage railcar built in 1899 by the Pullman Company is on track to come home to Pullman National Historical Park & State Historic Site. Built for the Chicago, Rock Island & Pacific (CRI&P), the wooden railcar entered service as CRI&P Parlor Car #699 in January 1900, providing first-class day service on the Rock Island Express operating daily between Chicago and Omaha.
A Letter of Intent to Donate has been executed between the railcar’s owner, David Hoffman, and the Historic Pullman Foundation (HPF) and paves the way for the eventual transfer of ownership and the relocation of the railcar to the North Wing of the historic Pullman Factory, once funding has been secured for environmental remediation of the site.
Built during a pivotal era in American railroad history, the CRI&P #699 reflects Pullman’s prominence in luxury passenger-car manufacturing and the significant role railroads played in shaping the nation’s economy and culture. The railcar’s presence at the park will deepen visitors’ understanding of this important chapter in history.
“We owe a debt of gratitude to Dave Hoffman for the generous offer of this rare gem,” said Joseph C. Szabo, HPF board member and former head of the Federal Railroad Administration. “While the interior will need a full restoration, the frame and body are in remarkable shape for a railcar that is 125 years old.”
Szabo has been tasked by the National Park Service (NPS) and Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) to lead a working group to bring historic railcars to the site for interpretation. “While we still have much work to do, securing the rights to this car is a key milestone in our efforts,” he said.
David Hoffman, the railcar’s current owner, expressed his excitement for the partnership. “It’s the perfect home for the CRI&P #699. I’m thrilled to know it’ll be preserved and appreciated as part of the Pullman story and its contributions to American history,” he said.
“America’s stories live in Pullman, and through this classic Parlor Car, visitors will learn of the Industrial Revolution, the evolution of rail travel during the Gilded Age, and the on-board service provided by Pullman Porters,” said Maria P. Hibbs, president of the Historic Pullman Foundation. “We are delighted to secure this artifact for the benefit of the National Park and State Historic Site.”
The partners will now focus on securing funds to prepare the North Wing of the factory site for display. Consistent with NPS and IDNR interpretive plans, the restoration work on CRI&P #699 is envisioned to be a living exhibit showcasing the craftsmanship of Pullman factory workers in the 1890s.
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