Back in 1977, Los Angeles’ Union Station was not nearly as busy as it is today (2 Southwest Limiteds, 2 Coast Starlights, 8 San Diegans and, three days per week, 2 Sunset Limiteds). It was quiet enough, if fact, that there were enough tracks that American Freedom Train 4-8-4 4449 could be serviced up on the platforms, rather than finding space at one of the nearby engine facilities. The former Southern Pacific engine was in town for a little maintenance during its trip from Birmingham, Alabama, to it home in Portland, Oregon. To make the trip, Amtrak operated the Transcontinental Steam Excursion as a series of fan trips. And on Monday, April 25, 1977, received some light maintenance and even a wash.
