Wisconsin Central: Regional Railroad Powerhouse in Review

The Wisconsin Central (WC) was a dynamic regional railroad that served the upper Midwest from 1987-2001. Despite lasting just short of fourteen years, WC packed a lot of changes and development into that time and repeatedly shook up the industry. We look at this colorful operation in all seasons and across the territory it served. WC employed a wide variety of second-hand locomotives, and they are depicted working a range of tasks around the system. The classy maroon and gold livery of WC is fondly remembered. Early and late versions of this paint scheme are shown. The routes of the WC were continually refined over the course of its existence through purchases of additional lines and whole RRs. These changes are covered in detail through text, maps, and photographs. The factors that set the stage for the creation and success of the WC are also discussed. Growth of the railroad is depicted right up to the last day when it became part of Canadian National. An epilogue provides updates on these routes after the independence of the WC ended.