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  • One day only! Runs September 21, 2025

1976 Photo Charter

Quick Details

  • Ages: 18+
  • Duration: 8 hours
  • Meeting Point: 825 Forest Park Drive, Noblesville, IN 46060
  • Accessibility: Seating for the train is located on the second level and requires navigation up 8 steep stairs to access
  • Included:
    • An 8 hour event offering multiple stops with photo and video opportunities.
    • A light dinner will be provided along with non-alcoholic beverages.
  • Cancellation Summary: No refunds or exchanges

Adult

$ 150

Step back in time on the Nickel Plate Express in Nobelsville!

Step back in time to 1976, nearly eight years after the Nickel Plate Road’s merger with Norfolk & Western, as we recreate a slice of railroad history. Freight traffic is dwindling on the line to Tipton, and a lone local freight prepares for its slow journey south toward Indianapolis, led by a GP9 —a sight quickly vanishing from the rails.

This 8-hour immersive photo charter offers authentic and dynamic photo and video opportunities at historic locations along the route, including Hobbs Station, Davin Wye, Arcadia Depot, and Atlanta. Every scene is carefully staged to transport photographers and videographers back to the golden era of 1960-1986, with a focus on realism and historical accuracy for the Nickel Plate Road and Norfolk & Western.

Join us for an unforgettable day capturing history in motion! This is an exclusive one-time opportunity with just 12 tickets available.

Equipment Used:

955 EMD GP9 locomotive #200 – Originally used by Union Pacific and later found at the Great Smokey Mountain Railroad, the 200 will be leading the train as it travels northbound.

1953 Nickel Plate Road GP7 – is a favorite among local train fans. Built in La Grange, IL, the 426 spent most of its life in freight service in Frankfort.

1945 NKP Baldwin VO-1000 #99 – while not operational, this engine will be staged at Hobbs Station for photos.

Monon caboose 81528 – Built by the Monon shops in Lafayatte, Indiana, in 1956, it is one of eight cabooses constructed to a Monon design that features a few touches unique to the Monon.

What is a photo charter train?

A photo charter train is a unique experience designed for photographers and rail enthusiasts to capture historically accurate, dynamic images of vintage trains in motion. Unlike standard excursions, a photo charter features staged runbys, where the train is positioned at scenic locations, backs up, and moves forward to recreate authentic railroad operations.

Participants ride the train to carefully chosen spots, disembark, and photograph the train under ideal lighting conditions, including golden hour. The event is closed to the public, ensuring uninterrupted access for the best possible shots. With multiple angles and perspectives at locations like Hobbs Station, Davin Wye, Arcadia Depot, and Atlanta, photographers can build a diverse portfolio that captures the nostalgia and motion of classic railroading.