Oneida Daily Dispatch: Karren

The electrification of railroads in the early 20th century was a significant milestone in the history of transportation. One such example is the Virginian Railway's electrification efforts, which unfortunately came to an abrupt end due to its merger with the Norfolk & Western in 1959.

In the early days, electric power proved to be superior to steam in nearly every way. The Milwaukee Road, for instance, energized 113 miles of its main line through western Montana in the late 1800s. This electrification was an instant success, as two 3-unit box-cab electrics were able to haul massive coal trains up steep grades in a fraction of the time it took steam engines.

The Virginian Railway also recognized the benefits of electric operation and completed its 134-mile electrification project in 1925. The route included some particularly challenging sections, including 14 arduous miles of 2 percent grade against loaded coal trains out of Mullens, West Virginia.

Other railroads followed suit, electrifying their steepest mountain districts where electrics held the greatest advantage over steam. The Chicago, Milwaukee, St. Paul and Pacific Railway also electrified its route through the Cascade Mountains in Washington state, using a tunnel that was the longest in North America at the time.

The success of these early electrification projects paved the way for larger installations on other railroads. Today, electric traction remains an essential part of modern railroading, providing efficient and reliable service to passengers and freight alike.

In conclusion, the Virginian Railway's electrification efforts may have been cut short due to its merger with Norfolk & Western, but they played a significant role in the development of electric traction on American railroads. The lessons learned from these early projects continue to influence the industry today.

Oneida daily dis karren