Columbus, Delaware, and Marion Interurban No. 501

Introduction of CDM No. 501

Columbus, Delaware, and Marion No. 501, affectionately known as the “Red Bird,” is a heavyweight steel interurban car, the second of a pair built by the American Car & Foundry Company in 1926. Interurban railways were electric railways connecting major cities and their surrounding communities, offering passenger service to residents with cars that were essentially larger, heavier streetcars. At one time, the Great Lakes region of the United States had more miles of interurban railway trackage than anywhere else in the country. At this network’s height, Ohio residents could reach major cities such as Detroit, Chicago, Pittsburgh, and Indianapolis just by riding interurban railways alone.

Service History

The Columbus, Delaware & Marion was one of Ohio’s many interurban lines, running from downtown Columbus up to Bucyrus over a distance of roughly 80 miles. 501 and its classmate, 500, ran on limited schedules to provide high-end service to paying passengers along the CD&M’s mainline. 500 and 501 were first-class “parlor” cars, and featured swiveling seats, beverages, food, and even an independent smoking room. Between the many towns served by the railway, including Worthington, these two cars provided comfortable and stylish means of travel for passengers. Their time on the CD&M was short-lived, however: Both 500 and 501 were retired in 1933 after just 7 years of service.

Retirement and Legacy

In 1963, the Ohio Railway Museum acquired 501, where it resides today as the largest interurban car in the collection. Although it is currently awaiting restoration, the Red Bird remains an important piece from not only Ohio’s railroad past, but Worthington’s as well. The museum’s right-of-way itself is located on a section of the original Columbus, Delaware, and Marion Railway, which 501 traveled along decades ago.

Preservation Efforts

With your support, the Red Bird can ride its home rails once again. Ask one of our volunteers about the many ways you can help keep the past alive at the Ohio Railway Museum today.

Specifications