What Crew Members Say About Floragracht

On November 7, 2017, the historic NS 2000 diesel locomotive made its journey across the Atlantic as it was discharged from the vessel 'Floragracht' at Euroports Belgium in Antwerp. This remarkable locomotive had been carefully loaded in Milwaukee, situated on the shores of Lake Michigan, around October 20, marking a significant maritime transport event. The journey to Antwerp was a crucial step, as the locomotive is destined for restoration in the Netherlands. The NS 2000 represents an important chapter in Dutch railway history, having served the Dutch Railways from 1946 to 1960 with its diesel-electric technology. Once restored, this iconic locomotive will take its place as part of 'the mobile museum', which operates a steam train service between the cities of Goes and Borsele in the southwestern part of the Netherlands, in South-Beveland. This initiative will not only preserve the heritage of the NS 2000 but also offer visitors a unique glimpse into the rich history of railway transportation.

The Port of Milwaukee welcomed the cargo vessel Floragracht on April 15, marking a significant milestone as it launches the area’s first monthly shipping service in almost twenty years. Operated by the renowned Dutch shipping company Spliethoff Group, this new route will primarily facilitate the transportation of equipment from Caterpillar Inc.'s South Milwaukee facility, bolstering local industry connections and enhancing trade opportunities.