Green Bay and Western Railroad Historical Society

Green Bay and Western Railroad Historical Society: Preserving Railroading Heritage

The Green Bay and Western Railroad Historical Society is dedicated to preserving the history of the Green Bay & Western Railroad (GBW), a rail line that served central Wisconsin for nearly a century before its absorption into the Wisconsin Central in 1993. The society maintains a collection of historic rail equipment and archives, offering a comprehensive look at the legacy of this important railroad.

Historical Background

The Green Bay and Western Railroad, also known as the Green Bay Route, was formed in 1896 from the bankruptcy proceedings of the Green Bay, Winona & St. Paul and the Kewaunee, Green Bay and Western railroads. The primary route of the GBW, originally built by the Green Bay and Lake Pepin Railroad, linked Green Bay, Wisconsin, with East Winona, Wisconsin. This route became the backbone of the new railroad, providing vital connections for freight and passengers in the region.

Throughout its history, the GBW underwent several significant developments:

• Formation and Expansion: In 1906, the GBW acquired a majority interest in the Ahnapee and Western Railway. This acquisition expanded the railroad's reach and capabilities.
• Western Refrigerator Line Company: Established in 1929, the Western Refrigerator Line Company (WRX) operated a 500-car fleet of refrigerated cars, enhancing the railroad’s ability to transport perishable goods.
• Passenger Service: Passenger traffic on the GBW ceased in April 1949. While the railroad had carried 50,000 passengers annually in the 1870s and peaked at 310,000 in 1915, this number dwindled to just 1,000 by 1947, reflecting a shift in transportation trends.
• Ownership Changes: The GBW sold off the Ahnapee and Western Railway in 1947 and was later purchased by the Itel Corporation in 1978. Eventually, the GBW and the Fox River Valley Railroad were merged into the Fox Valley and Western Railroad, a subsidiary of Wisconsin Central, on August 27, 1993. Wisconsin Central itself was later purchased by Canadian National Railway in 2001.

The Green Bay and Western Railroad Historical Society

The Green Bay and Western Railroad Historical Society was established to preserve the rich history of the GBW. The society’s efforts include maintaining a collection of historic rail equipment, archives, and other memorabilia that document the railroad’s operations and significance.

Key Activities and Contributions:

• Historic Rail Equipment: The society preserves and restores historic rail equipment, including locomotives, freight cars, and passenger cars. These pieces offer a tangible connection to the past, showcasing the technological advancements and design changes over the years.
• Archival Collection: The society’s archives contain a wealth of documents, photographs, and artifacts that provide insight into the daily operations, business transactions, and cultural impact of the GBW. These archives are invaluable for researchers, historians, and rail enthusiasts.
• Educational Outreach: Through exhibits, publications, and public programs, the society educates the public about the history of the GBW and its role in the development of central Wisconsin. These efforts help keep the legacy of the railroad alive for future generations.

Significance of the Green Bay & Western Railroad

The Green Bay & Western Railroad played a crucial role in the economic development of central Wisconsin. At its peak in 1970, the railroad operated 255 miles of road on 322 miles of track, transporting 317 million ton-miles of revenue freight. The GBW facilitated the movement of goods, people, and information across the region, contributing to the growth and prosperity of the communities it served.

Economic Impact: The GBW was instrumental in connecting agricultural and industrial producers with markets across the country. The establishment of the Western Refrigerator Line Company in 1929 further enhanced its capacity to transport perishable goods, supporting the local economy.

Community Connections: The GBW also served as a vital link for small towns along its route, providing essential transportation services that connected these communities to larger urban centers. The railroad's presence helped shape the social and economic landscape of central Wisconsin.

Conclusion

The Green Bay and Western Railroad Historical Society plays a vital role in preserving the history and legacy of the Green Bay & Western Railroad. Through its collection of historic rail equipment and comprehensive archives, the society offers a window into the past, celebrating the contributions of the GBW to the development of central Wisconsin. By educating the public and fostering an appreciation for this important chapter in railroading history, the society ensures that the legacy of the Green Bay & Western Railroad continues to inspire and inform future generations.

For more information about the Green Bay and Western Railroad Historical Society and its activities, please visit their official website or contact them directly.