Pennsylvania Class GG-1 Locomotive, Number 4919

Although the first Pennsylvania Railroad electric locomotive went into service in 1905, it was not until 1934 that the GG-1 was designed. The 2-C-C-2 wheel arrangement was tested on other railroads and found to be most satisfactory. From 1934 until 1943, a total
of 139 of these elite locomotives were built for and by the Pennsylvania Railroad. They handled all main line passenger service between New York and Harrisburg, Pennsylvania
in the electrified zones.

The Pennsylvania Railroad's GG-1's were geared for 110 mph in passenger service and somewhat lower for freight. They were used in freight service when traffic conditions permitted; they were numbered 4800-4938. The GG-1s' service life lasted well into the 1970s, with the last ones retired in 1980. When Amtrak took over passenger service in 1971, numbers 4899-4938 were included from Conrail, and many were renumbered to the 900 series in 1973.

The 4919 was originally numbered 4917 when built in the Juniata Shops of the Altoona Works, in Altoona, Pennsylvania. It was a wartime "baby" delivered in June of 1942 along with five others. A general renumbering of these locomotives in June 1973 gave it No. 4934, and it later was renumbered 4919.

This electric locomotive represents the finest of locomotives during the 1930s and 1940s. They have a graceful appearance with gold striping accenting their smooth, flowing lines. Capable of bi-directional operation, their appearance was enhanced when several were painted Tuscan red for operation on the morning and evening Congressional Limited between New York and Washington. Others were used on the Broadway Limited between New York and Harrisburg, blending in with the Tuscan red colors of the passenger equipment to present a fine-looking train.

A gift from Lillian B. Kelley, the mother of a former Museum President, enabled the Museum to acquire the locomotive in February, 1981.