Tama and Toledo Railroad

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Tama and Toledo Railroad
Overview
LocaleIowa
Dates of operation1894–1953
Technical
Track gauge4 ft 8+12 in (1,435 mm) standard gauge

The Tama and Toledo Railroad was an interurban and freight railroad that connected its namesake cities of Tama and Toledo, Iowa. It was originally formed in 1893. It survived until 1953 as a freight carrier.

History[edit]

The Tama and Toledo Railroad was first formed in 1893 as an interurban providing passenger service between Tama and Toledo, Iowa.[1]

The company replaced its streetcars with buses on June 17, 1925.[2]

The company went out of business on January 31, 1953, citing decreased freight revenues that made profitable operations impossible.[1]

Preservation[edit]

A Whitcomb locomotive that formerly operated on the Tama and Toledo was located and brought back to Toledo in 1998, following its purchase by a group of locals. The locomotive was to be restored and then placed on display in Toledo.[3]

References[edit]

  1. ^ a b "Shortest Rail Line Closes". The Gazette. January 18, 1953. p. 15. Retrieved November 4, 2022.
  2. ^ "Bus Line Replaces Railroad Service". The Telegraph-Herald. Associated Press. June 13, 1925. p. 1. Retrieved November 4, 2022.
  3. ^ Meester, Tammara (September 24, 1998). "'Little Train That Could' back home". The Gazette. p. 25. Retrieved November 4, 2022.