🚂 All Aboard for a Bit of Railroad History! ❤️ The red caboose originated in the 1830’s. By 1870, there were about 2,700 cabooses on American railroads. By 1900, that number had grown to more than 17,600. For over a century, these bright red cars rolled at the end of the line, serving as a home on wheels for conductors and brakemen. Inside, crews used it as an office, cooked meals, and watched for trouble on the tracks. The color red wasn’t just for style—it was chosen for visibility and safety