Nickel Plate Express recently signed an agreement to acquire the historic Nickel Plate business car number one. The business car will be used during 2019 operations for business retreats, private parties and themed excursions.
The business car is owned by Powell Felix, president of Indiana Boxcar Corporation and owner of four short line railroads. Nickel Plate Express will use the car at its discretion for businesses retreats, private parties and as first-class seating on themed excursions. The public can purchase tickets for the car beginning in spring 2019.
The Pullman Company built the Nickel Plate business car in 1929 for the president of the Nickel Plate holding company. It served several other railroads before transferring to private owners in the 1970s. Built to accommodate up to 16 guests, the steel car also includes private quarters for a porter and a cook. Originally, railroad officials used the business car on inspection trips. The car allowed them to remain on the railroad for an extended period of time and is fully equipped with a kitchen, dining room and lounge room for business meetings.
These business cars were not available to ordinary passengers and were reserved for railroad officials and executives.
“We are incredibly grateful to Felix for allowing us to use this moving piece of history,” said Nickel Plate Express Executive Director Deanna Holt. “It will make a nice addition to the Nickel Plate Express and allow us to offer guests a unique luxury experience.”
Nickel Plate Express will use the high-end business car for private parties, dinners and corporate meetings. Anyone interested in reserving the historic car in 2019 should contact the Nickel Plate Express team at info@nickelplateexpress.com.
Tickets for the Nickel Plate Express holiday ride, the Reindeer Ride Express, are on sale now at nickelplateexpress.com.
About Nickel Plate Heritage Railroad Inc.
Nickel Plate Heritage Railroad Inc. is a non-profit based in Arcadia, Ind. The organization will serve as the governing body for the new heritage railroad operation, Nickel Plate Express. It will manage train programming and marketing with excursion rail service contracted to Atlanta Pacific Rail, LLC.