I have been asked a research question that is perplexing and was curious if Rypn readers might know the answer. In the late 1960s Pennsylvania RR class D78 diner #4418 displayed at Travel Town in Los Angeles was painted with the name "The Coach of Fame". Why?

I have seen more recent pictures of #4418 without the name. What I know of the car's provenance is a donation from PRR to the City of Los Angeles in 1958.

Could it have been used for a movie shoot?

~K.R. Bell

This is purely speculation on my part, but the car has long been used for party rentals; primarily children's birthdays. The name could have something to do with that use.

I am sure they would trade it for the V&T engine (joking).

The PRR diner (along with a former coach) is now used for birthday parties; but, years ago the UP heavyweight diner was used for the birthday parties.

I do recall that the PRR car was called "Coach of Fame." The website for Travel Town does not provide any information. But, the photo of the car taken years ago at Travel Town does seem to show some lettering in the center below the window. I think the car was set up for some kind of display instead of retaining the dining car tables and seating.

Here is a photo linked from the Travel Town website that shows the interior of the coach and the dinner used today for birthday parties. I think the coach came to the park without interior seating and was used early on for some kind of exhibits. One of the coaches (or both) had built-up Ravell models.


And here is a photo of the diner years ago at Travel Town linked from the information page about the dinner:


It is rather late at night to do more research. When I do -- or find other information -- I will post it.