In a sign of its commitment to preserving railroad heritage, SMS Rail Service has completed the extensive restoration of Reading 7, a historic FP902 locomotive. Built for the Reading Company in the 1950s and later serving with SEPTA, the iconic locomotive will return to the rails after a long hiatus to lead scenic trips through Woodstown Central in New Jersey. This development presents an exciting opportunity for both history buffs and those looking for a nostalgic ride.
The Historical Journey of Reading 902
The Reading 902's roots can be traced back to the 1950s, when an order of six locomotives was built for the Reading Company. In the following years, this powerful unit provided reliable service on the commuter lines under the Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority (SEPTA), and in the 1990s, it took passengers on a nostalgic journey on historic train tours. After many years of service, the locomotive was retired and eventually transferred to Scranton, Pennsylvania, where it sat idle for a long time.
SMS Rail Service's Heritage Vision
In 2023, SMS Rail Service took an important step towards its mission to preserve and pass on regional railway history to future generations by purchasing Reading 902 and a historic carriage to accompany it. The locomotive’s diesel engine, which had been awakened from years of slumber, was brought back to life in early 2025 after a meticulous restoration process. This meticulous work demonstrates SMS Rail Service’s deep commitment to preserving historical values, beyond being just a railway operator.
“Scenic Walk” Tours Begin
Reading 902 will lead special tours called “Scenic Ride” beginning Saturday, May 10, 2025. The 32-mile (round trip) trip between Swedesboro and Mannington will last approximately two hours and offer passengers the opportunity to experience the natural beauty of Southern New Jersey from the perspective of a historic train. The Woodstown Central, which connects the towns of Woodstown, Swedesboro and Salem and opened in November 2022 on Salem County-owned rail lines, will host these nostalgic tours.
Diesel Power for Uninterrupted Service
While steam locomotive number 9, which is currently undergoing maintenance, awaits completion, Reading 902 will lead most of the trips throughout the spring. This reliable diesel unit plays a critical role in ensuring that planned tours continue without disruption. By restoring both steam and diesel locomotives, SMS Rail Service aims to showcase different aspects of railway heritage and reach a wider audience.
Future Plans and Community Involvement
SMS Rail Service’s vision for heritage tourism is not limited to restoration. The company plans to offer a variety of themed train rides and seasonal events in the future that aim to increase community involvement. These efforts are intended to attract families, history enthusiasts and tourists from across New Jersey to the area, while also contributing to the local economy. The reintroduction of Reading 902 further strengthens Woodstown Central’s reputation as a major attraction for nostalgic and reliable rail travel. Passengers will now be able to enjoy the charming atmosphere of the past combined with the reliability of modern operations.
