Baltimore and Ohio Railroad 98/"Eden Isle"

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 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; and by the 1940s the General Manger, F.G. Hoskins.

In 1955, the railroad re-assigned the 98 to the Central Region, out of Pittsburgh, and modernized the 98 with enhancements that included sealed windows, an arch roof, more modern climate control (air conditioning was initially installed around 1936), and the latest interior modifications. After serving the railroad for many years, it was sold to 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 until 1967. As the 1960s drew to a close, another sale saw the 98 (then named the “Maggie II”) sold to yet another private owner, 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 is currently undergoing the finishing touches of a 5-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.

Once the restoration is complete, the 98 will be 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, we humbly seek your support. Every donation, no matter its size, will play a crucial role in reviving the car’s former glory, ensuring that future generations can experience its luxurious charm. 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.