Two of the trains at Walt Disney World’s Magic Kingdom are celebrating 100 years on the rails. In 2025, the Roger E. Broggie and Walter E. Disney hit this milestone. These historic locomotives are still favorites with guests and also continue the legacy of Walt Disney’s love of trains. They also reflect Disney’s commitment to preserving experiences that have inspired generations.

Both of these trains were built originally in 1925 and spent decades in service before arriving at Walt Disney World. Both the Walter E. Disney and Roger E. Broggie spent decades in the service of the United Railways of Yucatan. Both engines were built by Baldwin Locomotive Works and are 4-6-0 “Ten-Wheeler” type steam locomotives.

They have stories that intertwine with Walt’s own fascination for railroads. This is a passion that helped spark the dream that would lead to Disneyland and then the Magic Kingdom at Walt Disney World. Through the years, these trains have continued to be cared for and received ongoing enhancements and restorations. The Walt Disney World Railroad shows how Disney continues to blend both innovation and tradition. Disney continues to honor the past while also keeping the magic moving forward.

There is a lot of work that is done to keep these trains pristine. A dedicated team of Cast Members, which includes the Transportation Engineering Service Manager, Lou Berkheiser, restored and maintained the Walt Disney World Railroad. There is a lot of behind-the-scenes work that led to a thorough and precise refurbishment of the engines. Lou, who has been a Cast Member for over 35 years, shared that he has “always had a love for trains,” and finds magic in “carrying on one of Walt’s original passions.” 

The process of refurbishment was shared by Lou. It included taking the train completely apart, piece by piece, and then restoring it to make all of it shine again. This was a process that blended engineering precision with tradition. It was a multi-year effort that saw the locomotive dismantled down to its smallest components. The parts were then restored, or replicas of parts were hand-fabricated when they didn’t exist anymore. The whole process required detailed craftsmanship to continue to keep these 100-year-old engines alive and steaming for generations to come.

The Roger E. Broggie returned to the rails in late 2023. It showcases the beautiful and rare art of hand-painted detailing and gold leafing. Lou shared how each stripe, number, and letter was meticulously applied by hand, preserving an “authentic craftsmanship” that is rarely seen today. This attention to detail continues on another of Walt Disney’s legacies, as he was known to be very attentive to details.

Disney shared that these locomotives aren’t just park icons, but living pieces of Disney’s legacy. And for Lou, “it’s not just a job — it’s an adventure,” he shared about working at a place that embodies Walt Disney and his legacy. This legacy continues to be treasured and built on as these trains steam into their second century of operation!

What do you think of these trains? Do you have a favorite train at Walt Disney World Resort? Share your thoughts and opinions in the comments below!