GP20 a unique diesel in Blacklands Railroad’s livery
Like most short lines, the Blacklands Railroad runs diesel locomotives retired from Class I railroads. BLR’s three Electro-Motive engines from the General Purpose series have varied backgrounds that include duties far from their current home in East Texas. The Blacklands’ most identifiable locomotive is No. 201 with its red paint scheme and BLR herald, a yellow swoosh and lettering in a gray circle. According to Railroad Picture Archives, an online collection of railroad photos, the GP8 was built as a GP7 in June 1952 with a high, short hood and originated on the Pittsburgh & Lake Erie. The engine was sold to the Illinois Central Gulf and rebuilt as a GP8. No. 201 later operated on the Garden City & Western and is owned by Pioneer Equipment Co. (PREX). The GP9 No. 4601, which BLR owns, is a former Grand Truck Western Railroad unit that was rebuilt at the Battle…
