Greenbrier and TTX Celebrate America's 250th with Commemorative Boxcar Unveiling
On April 1, 2026, a special event took place at Greenbrier's maintenance facility in Cleburne, Texas, as The Greenbrier Companies, Inc. (NYSE: GBX) and TTX Company came together to celebrate a monumental occasion: America's 250th anniversary. The focal point of the celebration was the unveiling of a custom-painted boxcar adorned with the American flag, symbolizing the deep-rooted history and the pivotal role of freight rail in the U.S. economy.
The initiative pays homage to over two centuries of innovation and craftsmanship in North American manufacturing, highlighting the collaboration between TTX and Greenbrier in nurturing and supporting the freight rail network that binds the continent.
Gathering for the celebration were esteemed company leaders, elected officials, veterans, active military members, employees, and members of the media. Each participant was part of a momentous occasion that honored the enduring values that have propelled this industry forward.
"These American flag boxcars commemorate over 250 years of U.S. history, emphasizing the innovative spirit, operational excellence, and strong partnerships that characterize North American freight rail today," stated Tom Wells, CEO of TTX. "We are honored to collaborate with Greenbrier to deliver solutions that enable commerce to flow efficiently while celebrating the lasting legacy of our industry. A special thanks also goes to Williams Hayward Protective Coatings, Inc. for their generous contribution that made this project a reality,” he continued.
Adding to this sentiment, Lorie Tekorius, CEO and President of Greenbrier, remarked, “This project underscores the strength of our lasting relationship with TTX and reflects our mutual commitment to enriching the North American economy. The integrated rail network acts as the circulatory system for moving goods in a timely and reliable manner, and we take great pride in sustaining this vital function. Since freight railcars can have a lifespan of up to 50 years, this American flag boxcar will traverse America’s railways for decades to come, serving as a vivid reminder of the importance of rail transport as our nation approaches its third century."
Among the notable government figures present were Federal Railroad Administration Administrator David Fink, Texas State Representative Helen Kerwin, and Mayor Pro Tem Blake Jones, aligning with industry leaders, veterans, and employees to underline the significance of American railroading. The boxcar is slated to begin its journey across North America in 2026, honoring the nation’s heritage and the integral role railroads have played in enhancing commerce, uniting communities, and fortifying national infrastructure.
Founded in Lake Oswego, Oregon, Greenbrier is recognized as a leading international supplier of equipment and services for global freight transportation markets. They are involved in the design, construction, and marketing of freight railcars in regions such as North America, Europe, Brazil, and the Middle East, also offering services in parts, maintenance, and retrofitting within North America.
TTX Company, established in 1955, is dedicated to facilitating a well-maintained and low-cost railcar pool of over 180,000 railcars, ensuring they meet the diverse needs of North America’s freight users. Over the past decade, TTX has invested $6 billion in expanding its fleet while also focusing on innovative designs and engineering solutions poised to enhance rail transportation efficiency.
In conclusion, the unveiling of this patriotic boxcar serves as both a celebration of historical milestones and a look towards the future of freight rail in supporting the U.S. economy. It illustrates the collaborative spirit inherent in railroading and the enduring legacy these partnerships foster, ensuring their critical role in commerce well into the future.