Oklahoma City, the capital of the state of Oklahoma, is a vibrant and growing city with a rich history. The city was founded in 1889 during the Land Run, a race to claim land in the Unassigned Lands of Oklahoma Territory. Within hours, the population of the city grew from zero to 10,000. Today, Oklahoma City is home to over 650,000 residents and is the largest city in the state.

Oklahoma City has a strong connection to freight transportation. The city is a major transportation hub, located at the crossroads of several major highways, including Interstate 35 and Interstate 40. It is also served by several Class I railroads, including Union Pacific and BNSF Railway. The city is home to the Will Rogers World Airport, which is a major air cargo hub, handling over 60 million pounds of cargo each year. Additionally, the Port of Oklahoma City provides access to the McClellan-Kerr Arkansas River Navigation System, allowing for the transportation of goods by barge.

Altoona, PA is a city located in Blair County, Pennsylvania. It is known for its rich history in the railroad industry, particularly as the home of the Altoona Works, one of the largest railroad repair facilities in the world. The Altoona Works was established in 1850 by the Pennsylvania Railroad and played a pivotal role in the development of the American rail system. Today, the city still maintains strong ties to the railroad industry, with Norfolk Southern's Juniata Locomotive Shop being one of the largest employers in the area.

One of the most notable features of Altoona is the Horseshoe Curve, a famous landmark in American railroad history. Built in 1854, the Horseshoe Curve is a three-track railroad curve that spans 2,375 feet and rises 139 feet. It was a remarkable engineering feat at the time and allowed trains to navigate the steep Allegheny Mountains more efficiently. The Horseshoe Curve is still in use today and is a popular tourist attraction, offering visitors a chance to witness the impressive sight of trains navigating the curve.

In addition to its railroad heritage, Altoona is also home to the Railroaders Memorial Museum, which showcases the history and impact of the railroad industry on American society. The museum features a collection of locomotives, rolling stock, and exhibits that highlight the lives of the men and women who worked on the railroads. It is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in the history of transportation and the role of railroads in shaping the United States.