Baltimore and Ohio Railroad Office Car 98

Office Car Number 98: A Luxurious Journey through Baltimore and Ohio Railroad 98’s Glorious Past

The Pullman Company constructed car number 98, originally numbered 99, in 1917, specifically as a private car for the president of the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad, Daniel W. Willard. Willard’s lucky number was 99, therefore he desired to have his office cars carry the number 99. This luxurious car was equipped with a kitchen, quarters for the crew, a dining room, three elegant staterooms, and a lounge. It was adorned with mahogany, vermilion, and oak paneling, brass fixtures, interior windows of leaded glass, and an observation platform. Shortly after delivery, the car was renumbered 98, in 1918, and eventually re-assigned to a B&O Vice President, out of Baltimore; around 1930. In 1938, a cutting edge air conditioning system was installed, making the 98 even more luxurious; and the interior bedroom layout was changed to create 2 washrooms (located between the slightly smaller Staterooms A and B). Two years later the car was re-assigned to the General Manger out of Baltimore, F.G. Hoskins.

In 1955, the railroad re-assigned the 98 to the Central Region, out of Pittsburgh, and its new excutive wanted the car modernized. In September the 98 emerged with enhancements that included sealed windows, a streamlined “turtleback” roof, more modern climate control and the latest interior equipment and appointments. After one more re-assignment in 1960, and serving the railroad for many years, it was sold to a member of the InterMountain Chapter of the National Railway Historical Society in 1962. Here, it was utilized on various excursions until a sale to an insurance executive from Chicago in 1965. During a trip back from Christmas in Florida, on the night of the 2nd of January 1966, a rollover derailment took the car out of service, and nearly ended its career, but ultimately the decision was made to repair the car, which spent 6 months in the shop. As the 1960s drew to a close, another sale saw the 98 (then named the “Maggie II”) sold to yet another private owner, an industrialist and CNO&TP executive, who brought the car to Chattanooga, and later Atlanta, under the care of the Southern Railway System.

The Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum became the home of the 98 in 1977. It quickly gained favor among museum visitors, earning a reputation as the most opulent car in the TVRM’s collection. During a refurbishment in the early 1980s, the car gained the name “Eden Isle” and shed its Pullman Green livery for TVRM’s Colonial Red. Following decades of service, it has recently undergone the finishing touches of a 6-year restoration to bring it back to circa 1955 condition in every detail possible, and working condition so many more can enjoy the glory and luxury of Office Car 98.

With the restoration complete, the 98 is available for public charter on various TVRM excursions, just as it was in the past. With its first-class style that harkens back to a time long past, the 98 remains TVRM’s most luxurious car, providing passengers with a uniquely nostalgic ride.

Support the Restoration of Office Car Number 98

The rich history and elegance of Office Car Number 98 is a testament to the golden era of rail travel. As we endeavor to restore this magnificent piece of history to its original splendor. Join us in preserving this iconic piece of the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad’s legacy. Donate now and be a part of this noble journey.