Canadian National’s Minneapolis Subdivision

The Minneapolis Subdivision reveals CN’s strategic evolution, showcasing its scenic corridor, diverse traffic, and engineering milestones.The Minneapolis Subdivision is a scenic and historic route through western Wisconsin into eastern Minnesota. It’s also Canadian National’s (CN) connection to several other railroads in the Twin Cities. This book looks at how the line went from a key part of Soo Line’s mainline to a truncated connection with the creation of the Wisconsin Central (WC). The operating philosophy of the WC shaped traffic on the line in the 1990s. After 2001, Canadian National ownership again changed the traffic mix and outlook for this line. The line was not purely a branchline—CN embarked upon key projects to make the most of its unique position in the Midwest and within their network. The colorful variety of locomotives that have visited from other railroads, CN’s varied fleet, and special trains are vividly presented. The evolution of facilities and operations is covered in detail through text, maps, and photographs. The impressive steel-arch high bridge over the St. Croix River is featured, a scenic and engineering highlight, not just for CN, but railroading in the Midwest. Read more