FMW Solutions Completes Restoration of Locomotive in Abbeville, Alabama
Cosmetic rebuild of USRA 0-8-0 engine reimagines what could have been ACL No. 1235
ABBEVILLE, AL – FMW Solutions, a national leader in railroad mechanical and historic restoration services, has completed the full cosmetic restoration of a steam locomotive, now designated Atlantic Coast Line No. 1235, in partnership with the Abbeville Foundation of Abbeville, Alabama. The project marks the culmination of an eight-month restoration effort to create a historically accurate tribute to the steam era’s role in Southeastern railroading.
The locomotive, originally built by Baldwin Locomotive Works as Florida East Coast No. 253, is a standard USRA 0-8-0 switch engine, the same type used extensively by the Atlantic Coast Line Railroad, which once served the city of Abbeville. ACL rostered engines in this class numbered 1200 through 1234; had one more been ordered, it would have been No. 1235. FMW and the Abbeville Foundation embraced this historically plausible renumbering to celebrate Abbeville’s rail legacy and to tell the story of a locomotive that never was but could have been.
“Our team thrives on projects that blend craftsmanship with historical accuracy,” said Chris Homco, Director of Operations at FMW Solutions. “This restoration pays homage to the Atlantic Coast Line’s deep roots in Alabama and honors the railroads that once connected towns like Abbeville to the nation.”
FMW’s cosmetic restoration crew worked from October 2024 to June 2025. Their tasks included complete disassembly, surface preparation and sandblasting, custom metal part fabrication, and the application of industrial finishes in authentic colors. The locomotive’s cab was rebuilt using locally sourced YellaWood© pressure-treated pine. Appliances and rods were also refitted, the bell was restored to ring, and the headlight was lit. The entire engine was placed under a new display shelter.
The restored locomotive is now visible from the public fence line along Alabama State Route 10, with private tours offered by arrangement through Great Southern Wood Preserving and the Abbeville Foundation.
“We wanted to do more than save a locomotive. We wanted to tell a story,” said Keith Rane, Project Manager for the Abbeville Foundation. “FMW brought that story to life with an incredible level of detail, craftsmanship, and care. Locomotive 1235 will be a point of pride for this community for years to come.”
About FMW Solutions
Founded in 2016, FMW Solutions is a full-service railroad contractor and consulting firm specializing in mechanical restoration, engineering design, diesel and steam locomotive servicing, rail operations, and historic preservation. With facilities in Tennessee and team members across the U.S., FMW serves both modern and heritage rail operators with innovative solutions and proven craftsmanship.
About the Abbeville Foundation
The Abbeville Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization established in 2021 to preserve, restore, and interpret the historical and cultural landmarks of Abbeville and Henry County, Alabama. The Foundation works to inspire civic pride and foster tourism through meaningful heritage projects.
