CHESTERFIELD, MI—In answer to questions asked by train hobbyists at the York, PA train meet, Lionel recently announced that the final locomotive made in the United States will be the 6-28074 Nickel Plate Road 2-8-4 Berkshire, #759.

Important to the histories of both model and real-life railroads, the "Berk" has held a special place in the hearts of railroad enthusiasts from its introduction to O-Gauge in 1946, with the original 726 model.

Equipped with TrainMaster^®Command Control, a Pullmor^® motor and RailSounds^® with CrewTalk^TM chitchat and TowerCom^TM announcements, this die-cast locomotive is a fine addition to any layout. The Berkshire also comes with an ElectroCoupler^TM on the rear of the tender, operating headlight, directional lighting and a realistic smoke unit. It retails for $749.95.

The Berkshire will be produced in an undisclosed, limited number. Each locomotive will be equipped with a commemorative plate that states: 6-28074 NICKEL PLATE ROAD BERKSHIRE #759, FINAL LIONEL U.S. PRODUCTION RUN MAY 2001, and will also come with a letter from Richard N. Maddox, president and COO of Lionel L.L.C., attesting to the locomotive’s authenticity.

The last Berkshire off the line will be displayed for one year in the Lionel Visitor’s Center, and later will enjoy an honored spot forever in the Lionel archives. Every visitor to the Visitor’s Center throughout 2001 and the first half of 2002 will be able to see, upclose, this finely-detailed, American-made locomotive so significant to the history of America’s model railways.

Call 1-800-4LIONEL for a dealer near you and place your order today. Berkshires will be available in June.

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