Baltimore & Ohio Electrification Begins

The Baltimore & Ohio Railroad began regular electric operations on its Belt Line through Baltimore on August 11, 1898, using third-rail GE locomotives to eliminate smoke in the Howard Street Tunnel. This innovation addressed severe ventilation problems that had plagued steam operations and improved safety for both crews and passengers. Engineer Frank Sprague's influence was evident in the equipment design. The project demonstrated the practicality of electric traction for heavy freight and passenger service, influencing later systems like the Pennsylvania Railroad's New York terminal electrification. Lasting impacts include reduced urban pollution and the template for tunnel electrification worldwide. Enthusiasts prize HO-scale models of the early B&O electric boxcabs.