BMCX 829 was built in 1949 by the Budd Company for the Southern Railway. It was used in service throughout the southeastern United
States in such trains as the "Crescent," the "Southerner" and the "Piedmont" until 1979, when it was sold to Amtrak (which took over most
American intercity passenger train services in 1971). The car was then sold to Global Communications in 1982 and operated in excursion
trains over the Michigan Northern Railroad.
The Bluewater Michigan Chapter purchased the car from Global in 1985. 829 is constructed of stainless steel and weighs about 63 tons.
Originally equipped with steam ejector air conditioning and steam heat, Bluewater replaced these systems with diesel engine-powered
heat pumps. The electrical systems consist of an axle-driven 32 volt DC generator charging a large bank of batteries, which in turn provide
power to the lights and other equipment.
2008 saw the completion of the 3 year interior restoration project for 829, with new upholstery, flooring and paint as well as updated
electrical and plumbing systems.
829 recently had its seats reinstalled during a work session and is ready for excursion service. Below are photos of the event, click on
them to make them bigger.
States in such trains as the "Crescent," the "Southerner" and the "Piedmont" until 1979, when it was sold to Amtrak (which took over most
American intercity passenger train services in 1971). The car was then sold to Global Communications in 1982 and operated in excursion
trains over the Michigan Northern Railroad.
The Bluewater Michigan Chapter purchased the car from Global in 1985. 829 is constructed of stainless steel and weighs about 63 tons.
Originally equipped with steam ejector air conditioning and steam heat, Bluewater replaced these systems with diesel engine-powered
heat pumps. The electrical systems consist of an axle-driven 32 volt DC generator charging a large bank of batteries, which in turn provide
power to the lights and other equipment.
2008 saw the completion of the 3 year interior restoration project for 829, with new upholstery, flooring and paint as well as updated
electrical and plumbing systems.
829 recently had its seats reinstalled during a work session and is ready for excursion service. Below are photos of the event, click on
them to make them bigger.
