The Milwaukee Road
Though closely identified with Wisconsin, The Milwaukee Road played an important economic role throughout the Upper Midwest. From unassuming roots, it became critical to the emergence of Milwaukee, St. Paul, and other cities as commercial centers. The inauguration of the high-speed Hiawathas in the mid-1930s further helped the Milwaukee forge an identity as strong as that of any railroad. Surrounded by the more prosperous Hill lines, the Milwaukee remained determined to provide competitive freight and passenger services at low costs. Nothing better demonstrated this grit than the 1905 decision to build its own line to Puget Sound.
In this wonderfully illustrated history, Tom Murray provides a concise and colorful look at this underdog railroad, from its genesis in a collection of Wisconsin-based granger roads to its purchase by one-time rival Soo Line in 1985. In addition to examining Milwaukee Road operations and equipment through depression, world war, and advancing technologies, Murray shows how the road came to attract a loyal following through its services and sheer determination. Marvelous photography from archives and top rail photographers, along with period ad art and timetables, illustrate how the Milwaukee carried out its mission to serve the shipping and travelling public during its 135-year history- and why its memory is still perpetuated by those who worked for it, rode its trains, or simply admired it.
Hardback with dust jacket, 22x28cm, 160 pages, black & white and colour photographs
Condition: Good/Very Good
ISBN: 9780760320723
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Updated: 2 January 2025