FROM 1954 TO NOW: THE REVIVAL OF GRAND TRUNK’S DINING CAR 899

Revitalizing Railway History: The Restoration of Dining Car 899, “Silver Lake”

Nestled within the heart of our advanced restoration and repair facility in East Chattanooga lies a magnificent emblem of history – Dining Car 899, fondly known as the “Silver Lake.” Constructed in 1954 by the renowned Pullman-Standard, this dining car was initially a proud member of the Grand Trunk Western Railroad‘s fleet, a U.S. subsidiary of the Canadian National Railway. Today, the “Silver Lake” is the star of our major restoration project.

The ongoing work on this classic car includes a thorough upgrade and expansion of its kitchen, ensuring it aligns with modern needs while retaining its vintage charm. As we breathe new life into the “Silver Lake,” we’re already gearing up for our next restoration endeavor: The Southern Railway dining car 3158, which awaits its turn for updates and crucial repairs.

Our accompanying photos offer a sneak peek into the transformation. You’ll witness our shop lead, Ryan, meticulously crafting pieces in our machine shop to perfect the kitchen modifications. A beautifully hand-painted GTW logo by our skilled painter, Jerry, stands as a testament to our commitment to detail and authenticity. Further, the interior shots provide a glimpse into the ongoing kitchen modifications, showcasing a harmonious blend of the past and present.