Imagine stepping into Disneyland and witnessing a sight not seen in six long years: four majestic trains chugging along the Disneyland Railroad simultaneously. It’s a moment that feels like a return to normalcy, yet it’s so much more than that. But here’s where it gets controversial: Is this a true celebration of Disneyland’s heritage, or a reminder of how much has changed since the pandemic? Let’s dive in.
For the first time since 2019, the Disneyland Railroad is operating at full capacity, a feat that was once commonplace but was halted due to the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020. The delay was further compounded by a devastating fire at the New Orleans Square station in 2022, which damaged not only the telegraph office but also the iconic water tower. And this is the part most people miss: The water tower’s repair wasn’t just a cosmetic fix—it’s essential for refilling the steam engines, enabling the railroad to run more trains at once. Without it, the return of four trains would have been impossible.
For years, visitors were accustomed to seeing only two trains in operation. In late 2023, three trains began running during peak times, a step in the right direction but still shy of the full experience. Now, with the water tower restored, the railroad is back to its former glory—a testament to the park’s resilience and commitment to preserving its history.
The Disneyland Railroad boasts five engines and five train sets, each with its own unique story. On Tuesday, December 23, four of these engines were in operation, with the Ward Kimball engine notably absent due to refurbishment. Let’s take a closer look at the stars of the show:
Engine #2, the E.P. Ripley, named after Edward Payson Ripley, a founding figure of the Atchison, Topeka and Santa Fe Railway, which inspired the Disneyland Railroad. This engine, a park original, returned to service in 2023 after a lengthy refurbishment. It’s paired with the Holiday Blue train set and the Lilly Belle parlor car, a side-facing train with a capacity of 215 people.
Engine #1, the C.K. Holliday, named after Cyrus K. Holliday, the first president of the Atchison, Topeka and Santa Fe Railway. Designed to resemble Walt Disney’s miniature Lilly Belle locomotive, it’s paired with the Excursion train set, featuring forward-facing cars with red and green accents.
Engine #4, the Ernest S. Marsh, which celebrated its 100th anniversary earlier this year. Unlike the other engines, the Marsh wasn’t built for Disneyland—it dates back to 1925. Named after the Santa Fe Railway president when it joined the park in 1959, it’s paired with the Holiday Green train set.
Engine #3, the Fred Gurley, the oldest of the Disneyland Railroad engines, constructed in 1894. Named after the Santa Fe Railway president at Disneyland’s opening in 1955, it’s paired with the Holiday Red train set, featuring side-facing cars with red stripes.
The Ward Kimball, Engine #5, is currently under refurbishment. Built in 1902, it’s the park’s second-oldest engine and didn’t enter service until 2005.
Here’s a thought-provoking question: With the railroad’s return to full capacity, does it reignite the debate about balancing modern efficiency with historical preservation? Disneyland has always been a place where the past meets the present, but as we celebrate this milestone, it’s worth considering what we’ve gained—and what we’ve left behind.
The phased refurbishments earlier this year, including restored props and operational dinosaurs, show Disneyland’s dedication to maintaining its charm. But as we marvel at four trains running side by side, let’s also reflect on the journey it took to get here.
Are you thrilled to see the water tower repaired and four trains in action? Or does this moment stir up mixed feelings about the park’s evolution? Let us know in the comments and on social media. For more Disneyland Resort updates, follow Disneyland News Today on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram. For global Disney Parks news, visit WDWNT.
Shannen Ace
