08/18/2025
RailFest 2025 - The countdown is on!
The Western Maryland Scenic Railroad is proud to announce the preservation and acquisition of former Conemaugh & Black Lick Railroad SW7 locomotive #111, thanks to the generous and personal efforts of the Kovalchick family of the Kovalchick Corporation and JC & Annie McHugh of McHugh Locomotive.
Built by EMD, SW7 #111 is fully operational and represents a rare and significant piece of mid-century American railroading. The locomotive was secured in June 2025 through the collaboration of all involved and will be relocated to the Western Maryland Scenic Railroad in the coming weeks, just in time for RailFest 2025, where it will be formally welcomed into the WMSR fleet. #111 is the last survivor of the original 25 SW7s based out of Johnstown, PA.
Following her arrival, #111 will undergo inspection and servicing at the Ridgeley Shops of the WMSR. She will then enter regular service as the lead locomotive on several of the railroad’s most beloved seasonal excursions, including the CottonTail Comet, Ice Cream Train, and Pumpkin Patch Limited.
The locomotive will debut in her current Conemaugh & Black Lick Railroad paint scheme, preserving her original identity for the time being. However, WMSR also has exciting long-term plans for a very special and unique appearance that will celebrate both her heritage and future role on the railroad.
“We are deeply grateful to the Kovalchick family and to JC and Annie McHugh for their unwavering commitment to railroad preservation,” says Wes Heinz, Executive Director of the Western Maryland Scenic Railroad. “Their dedication ensures that locomotive #111 will continue to serve the public—not just as a piece of history, but as a working part of our railway's ongoing story.”
SW7 #111 was originally designed for heavy industrial switching and yard service, making her a robust and reliable addition to the WMSR’s operational roster. Her continued service is a testament to the relevance and appeal of heritage railroading.
Further details about #111’s arrival and public debut during RailFest 2025 will be announced in the coming weeks.
About Western Maryland Scenic Railroad:
The Western Maryland Scenic Railroad is a heritage railway based in Cumberland, Maryland. Offering scenic excursions through the mountains of Western Maryland, WMSR is dedicated to preserving and interpreting historic rail equipment and providing engaging, family-friendly rail experiences throughout the year. Tickets to our events are available at wmsr.com.
