SP H0 Models
All H0-scale models of the Southern Pacific Railroad at a glance: one of the "Big Four" American pioneer railroads in 1:87 scale. Founded in 1865 as a subsidiary of Central Pacific, SP was from 1885 to 1996 one of the most important Class-1 railroads in the US — known for the black-orange "Black Widow" livery, the orange "Daylight" passenger trains and the unique Cab-Forward steam locomotives. Acquired by Union Pacific in 1996.
SP H0 Models – Southern Pacific (1865–1996)
Southern Pacific Railroad was founded in 1865 and, as a subsidiary of Central Pacific, was part of the first transcontinental railroad (Golden Spike 1869). SP grew into one of the largest Class-1 railroads in the US, with focal points in California, Texas, Nevada, Oregon and Mexico. Its 19,000-route-mile railroad was acquired by Union Pacific in 1996, ending a 131-year history. In H0 scale, Athearn dominates the SP range, supplemented by Walthers and Rapido.
SP Liveries – Black Widow, Daylight and Bloody Nose
Three legendary liveries shape the SP identity: the black-orange "Black Widow" livery of the 1950s for diesel freight locos (with the characteristic orange stripes). The spectacular red-orange-black "Daylight" scheme of the GS-Pacific steam locos for the famous Daylight passenger trains between Los Angeles and San Francisco. The grey "Bloody Nose" livery (red front, grey body, 1958+) as standard for diesel freight locos until the UP takeover. Collectors particularly love the Cab-Forward steam locomotives (AC-class) for the Sierra Nevada.
SP Locomotive Families
Diesels: SD45T-2 "Tunnel Motor", SD40T-2, SD9, GP9, F7, FP7. Late diesels: SD70M, GP60. Steam: GS-4 (Daylight 4449), AC-12 Cab-Forward, MK-class. Filter by manufacturer, class or DCC sound.