Disney Cast Members are celebrating 100 years of steam power as two of Magic Kingdom’s trains — the Roger E. Broggie and Walter E. Disney — mark their 100th birthdays this year.
A Century of Magic Kingdom’s Steam Trains
These historic locomotives continue to delight Guests and carry Walt’s lifelong love for trains, reflecting Disney’s ongoing investment in preserving the experiences that have inspired generations.
Originally built in 1925, both trains spent decades in service long before arriving at Walt Disney World. Their stories intertwine with Walt’s own fascination for railroads — a passion that helped spark the dream of Disneyland and later, the Magic Kingdom at Walt Disney World.
Through ongoing enhancements and meticulous restoration, the Walt Disney World Railroad remains a shining example of how Disney continues to blend innovation with tradition — honoring the past while keeping the magic moving forward.
Behind the scenes, Cast Members, including Transportation Engineering Service Manager, Lou Berkheiser, restored and maintained the Walt Disney World Railroad. They brought these engines back to life through years of thorough and precise refurbishment. Lou has been a Cast Member for more than 35 years and has “always had a love for trains,” finding magic in “carrying on one of Walt’s original passions.”
Lou described the refurbishment process as watching a train come apart piece by piece so it can shine again — a careful and detailed restoration that blends engineering precision with tradition. The multi-year effort involves dismantling the locomotive down to its smallest components, restoring or even hand-fabricating parts that no longer exist, and applying every finish with detailed craftsmanship — a level of care that keeps these 100-year-old engines alive and steaming for future generations.
The Roger E. Broggie — which returned to service in late 2023 — showcases the rare art of hand-painted detailing and gold leafing. Lou explained every stripe, number, and letter was carefully applied by hand, preserving an “authentic craftsmanship” rarely seen today. This attention to detail reflects Disney’s continued commitment to preserving and enhancing the timeless experiences that connect generations of Guests.
As their whistle echoes down Main Street, U.S.A., and the gleam of gold trim on their tenders sparkles, these trains are more than just park icons — they’re living pieces of Disney heritage. For Cast Members like Lou, “it’s not just a job — it’s an adventure,” to work at a place that embodies Walt and his legacy.
Have you ever taken a ride on the Roger E. Broggie and Walter E. Disney? Let us know in the comments and on social media.
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