1. Home
 ›
2. Fallen Flags
 ›
3. Chicago, Rock Island & Pacific
 ›
4. Diesel Roster

Rock Island Diesel Roser: All-Time

Published: May 31, 2024

By: Adam Burns

The Chicago, Rock Island and Pacific, commonly known as the Rock Island, was a prominent railroad company established in 1851. Initially chartered as the Rock Island and La Salle Railroad Company, it was renamed in 1852.

The Rock Island played a pivotal role in the development of the American Midwest by providing critical rail transportation across a network that, at its height, stretched over 7,500 miles connecting the central and southwestern United States.

The CRI&P began testing early diesel switchers during the 1930s and was quick to adopt the motive power as main line models became available late that decade.

While the railroad predominantly preferred Electro-Motive and Alco products it acquired models from all of the major builders, including a few from Lima's brief catalog.  The information below covers the Rock Island's all-time diesel roster.

Photos

Rock Island U30C #4582 and SD40-2 #4795, circa 1975. From the Mike Bledsoe collection. American-Rails.com collection.

History

Headquartered in Chicago, Illinois, the Rock Island completed its first track from Chicago to Joliet, Illinois in October 1852, marking the beginning of its expansions.

Noteworthy for innovation, it was one of the first railroads to bridge the Mississippi River in 1856, connecting Rock Island, Illinois, and Davenport, Iowa. This move significantly boosted its importance, facilitating travel and trade across the river.

As railroads were the arteries of commerce in the 19th and early 20th centuries, Rock Island expanded rapidly through construction and acquisitions, pushing westwards towards Colorado, Texas, and New Mexico.

By the early 20th century, the railroad had established major routes, such as the Golden State Route in partnership with the Southern Pacific, connecting Chicago and Los Angeles.

However, the mid-20th century brought challenges. The Great Depression hit all railroads hard, including the Rock Island. Post-World War II, the widespread adoption of automobiles and the burgeoning interstate system began to erode the dominance of rail travel. Despite efforts to modernize and diversify services, financial instability overshadowed its operations.

By the 1970s, the Rock Island was struggling under bankruptcy, and efforts to merge with other railroads failed. Inevitably, it ceased all operations in 1980. Some of its lines were absorbed by other railroads, while others were abandoned or transformed into trails.

Despite its decline, the legacy of the Chicago, Rock Island and Pacific Railroad endures, remembered for its crucial role in the development and connectivity of the American Midwest.

Cab Units

Road-Switchers

Yard Switchers