Bluford Shops 42161 N ICC Bay Window Caboose Pittsburgh & Lake Erie deepwater green #P&LE 511

Pittsburgh & Lake Erie was a vital member of the New York Central System but with a stubborn independent streak. When parent NYC joined with the Pennsy to form Penn Central in 1968, P&LE went along for the ride. PC logos began to replace NYCS ovals on P&LE equipment. However, PC soon got into trouble, falling into bankruptcy in 1970. By contrast, P&LE remained busy and profitable. Soon after, they began omitting the PC “worms” logos from repainted equipment. This Phase 2 caboose paint scheme dates from this period. P&LE would then be disentangled from Penn Central management and go it alone.