SUPPORT THE RESTORATION OF THE HOLLINS COLLEGE
We are actively raising funds to restore the Hollins College and give this historic railcar a new life.
She represents far more than steel and wheels — she carries decades of railroad history.
With your support, we can carefully preserve and restore her, ensuring she continues to inspire, educate, and connect future generations with America’s rich railroading legacy.
#SAVETHEHOLLINSCOLLEGE
We are pleased to announce that the Norfolk & Western Hollins College — the last surviving fully-intact N&W ACF 12-4 sleeping car — has now officially been purchased by the Norfolk & Western Business Car 300 Preservation Society!
This remarkable piece of railroad history was acquired on January 21, 2026, marking a major milestone in our mission to preserve and share this legendary railcar for future generations.
The Wabash Era
Western Sunset
A 12-4 Sleeper, the car was built by the American Car & Foundry in January 1950 for the Wabash as the Western Sunset.
The Norfolk and Western Era
Hollins College
The car became a part of the Norfolk and Western in 1964 and operated as a revenue car until 1969. In 1971, the car was renumbered #90. In 1972, the car was assigned to Business Train Service, was renamed Hollins College and was renumbered #451.
The Norfolk Southern Era
NS 10
In 1984, the car was renumbered NS 10 and continued it's assignment in Business Train Service. (Photo Credit: Phil Miller)
The Royal Rail Era
Royal Knight
The car was sold by NS to Royal Rail in 1987. The entire fleet was sold to the Morristown and Erie Railway in the early 2000s.
Present Day
We have saved the Hollins College
The car's airbrake system has been rebuilt and we are awaiting the final inspection in advance of her journey to Indiana.
We are ready to start writing a new chapter in the car's history!
2025 Inspection
Morristown, New Jersey
Click on the photo to open up a Google Photos album of the car.
The Board of Directors at the Hoosier Valley Railroad Museum in North
Judson, Indiana unanimously approved our request to establish their
museum as the home base for the restoration of the car.
3-5 YEAR DURATION, ESTIMATED COST: $250,000
- Purchase the car (Phase 1A).
- Restore the air brake system (Phase 1B).
- Restore the interior of the car.
- Replace all of the windows with new glazing.
- Upgrade the 32V electrical system to 110/220/480V.
- Install HEP.
- Install a generator.
- Install a Microphor system.
- Service the HVAC systems.
- Restore the exterior to N&W Tuscan and Black.
Phase 2:
Restore The Interior
Launched 12/19/25
$5,000.00
Amount graciously granted
to us by Norfolk Southern.
7
Number of donations received
during Phase 2.
$5,086.15
Total amount raised since Phase 2 launch.
Phase 1:
Purchase the Hollins College and Ship The Car Home To Indiana
Launched 12/3/24 - Completed 12/19/25
$12,500.00
Amount graciously granted
to us by Norfolk Southern.
286
Number of donations received
during Phase 1.
$48,162.00
Total amount raised during Phase 1.
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