Milwaukee Road Mainline Chicago to the Twin Cities (1965–1985)

Discover the captivating legacy of the Milwaukee Road, an iconic railway that held the hearts of Midwest travelers, shippers, dedicated railway personnel, and enthusiasts alike. Delve into the pages of this book to explore the rich history of the Milwaukee Road, particularly focusing on the former River Division along the bustling 410-mile Chicago–Twin Cities mainline during its final two decades (approximately 1965–1985).

Embark on a journey alongside the Milwaukee Road’s Morning and Afternoon Hiawathas as they traverse their ultimate miles, drawn by the commanding FP7 and E9 diesel locomotives. These powerful engines effortlessly pull a procession of coaches, the Super Dome, and Skytop Lounge cars, all elegantly adorned in the distinct yellow and gray livery with striking red accents.

The adventure commences at the iconic Chicago Union Station, leading you on a visual voyage through picturesque locations like Glenview, Rondout, Sturtevant, Milwaukee, Watertown, Columbus, Portage, Tomah, La Crosse, and the breathtaking western bank of the upper Mississippi River, culminating at the historic St. Paul Union Depot and Minneapolis Depot.

Immerse yourself in the world of Milwaukee’s freight operations, a realm explored through the XL Special and Sprint trains. The narrative also encompasses local and branch line tasks (Patrols), providing insights into the intricate web of railway activities. For model railroading enthusiasts, a special treat awaits as they feast their eyes on images of iconic towers including Lake Tower, Duplainville, Grand Crossing, and St. Croix Tower.

Step back in time through meticulously captured depot photographs, showcasing architectural marvels like Morton Grove, Deerfield, Sturtevant, Oconomowoc, Watertown, Columbus, Portage, Wisconsin Dells, New Lisbon, Tomah, Sparta, La Crosse, Winona, Red Wing, St. Paul Union Depot, and Minneapolis Depot. Among the cherished images are glimpses of Milwaukee Road diesel locomotives leading Amtrak’s North Coast Hiawatha and Empire Builder during Amtrak’s formative years, a true testament to the Milwaukee Road's enduring impact on American rail history.

Unearth a treasure trove of history, locomotive power, and the scenic beauty of the Midwest with this captivating exploration of the Milwaukee Road's final decades. Whether you're a seasoned railway aficionado, a dedicated model railroader, or simply someone who appreciates the allure of a bygone era, this book invites you to relive the glory days of the Milwaukee Road in a way that's both informative and visually mesmerizing.