Background & History

50’ boxcar #20042 is in the third group of Boxcars ordered that fell in the Class XLj. They were delivered in the dark solid green paint scheme with a huge “RDG” logo. The Class XLj cars were one of the last new group of cars ordered for the Reading in 1972. They were equipped with roller bearing trucks, hydraulic cushioning units, and “DF” load restraints – considered state of the art in 1972. Cars in this group ended up being transferred to Conrail in 1976, where they eventually became surplus with a reduced demand for 50’ boxcars.

RCT&HS was fortunate enough to be able to purchase # 20042 in January 1999. #20042 had been lucky enough to become a survivor by serving as a Maintenance of Way storage car  in the Conrail Yard at Lyons, NY. RCT&HS is fortunate to have saved five boxcars in Class XLj. We expect to restore Boxcar #20042 to its original green color with the huge RDG proudly displayed on the side.