Burlington & Missouri River Railroad – Legends of America
The Burlington and Missouri River Railroad (B&MR), a name that evokes images of steam engines chugging across vast prairies and connecting burgeoning settlements, stands as a testament to the ambitious spirit of 19th-century America. Incorporated in 1852 in the bustling town of Burlington, Iowa, the railroad was envisioned as a vital artery, stretching westward to link the fertile lands of Iowa with the strategic Missouri River. With its headquarters strategically located in Omaha, Nebraska, the B&MR embarked on a journey that would not only transform the landscape but also shape the destiny of the region.
The early days of the B&MR were marked by humble beginnings. On January 1, 1856, the railroad commenced operations with a mere few miles of track, a modest footprint compared to the grand vision that lay ahead. Yet, this small start was fueled by an unwavering determination to conquer the challenges of terrain and logistics. As the iron rails snaked westward, they brought with them the promise of progress, connecting communities and opening up new opportunities for trade and settlement.
The year 1857 marked a significant milestone as the B&MR extended its reach to Ottumwa, Nebraska, further solidifying its role as a key transportation link. In 1868, the railroad continued its expansion, reaching Murray, Nebraska, bringing communities closer and boosting economic activity. Finally, in November 1859, the B&MR achieved a pivotal goal: reaching the mighty Missouri River. This accomplishment was a triumph of engineering and perseverance, achieved with the aid of wood-burning locomotives and wooden passenger cars that were characteristic of the era.
The completion of the B&MR’s westward expansion was a moment of great significance, but it also presented a new set of challenges. The Missouri River, a formidable natural barrier, needed to be bridged to facilitate seamless travel and commerce. To address this, the Chicago, Burlington, and Quincy Railroad (CB&Q) stepped in, constructing a bridge across the Mississippi River at Burlington. This strategic move created a vital connection to the B&MR, enabling the flow of goods and passengers between the eastern and western regions.
By 1868, the B&MR had grown into a substantial operation, boasting a fleet of 13 locomotives and 429 cars, primarily dedicated to freight transport. The railroad’s financial performance reflected its growing importance, with net earnings reaching $299,850 in 1867. After accounting for loan interest, the B&MR reported a net profit of $6,749, a testament to its financial viability and potential for future growth.
The expansion of the B&MR continued relentlessly, with a sub-branch established in Nebraska in 1869. In 1870, the first rails entered the state at Plattsmouth, marking a new chapter in the railroad’s history. That same summer, the B&MR reached Lincoln, the recently designated state capital, further solidifying its role in the development of Nebraska. Undeterred by the challenges of terrain and logistics, the railroad continued to lay track westward, eventually joining forces with the Union Pacific Railroad on September 3, 1872, at Kearney.
The railroad bridge into Kearney became a vital transportation link, serving for an impressive 104 years. This bridge facilitated the movement of goods and people from southern Nebraska to the rest of the continent, playing a crucial role in the region’s economic and social development.
Recognizing the potential of the fertile lands along its route, the B&MR launched an ambitious campaign to attract settlers to Iowa and Nebraska. Advertisements touted "millions of acres of cheap land," enticing prospective farmers and entrepreneurs to seek their fortunes in the West. This initiative played a significant role in the settlement and development of the region, transforming vast prairies into thriving agricultural communities.
In an early display of environmental consciousness, Chief Engineer Thomas Doane initiated a groundbreaking forestation experiment in 1872. He hired nurseryman Ezra F. Stephens of Crete to plant 750,000 trees along a 100-mile stretch of the line between Lincoln and Lowell. The purpose of this ambitious project was to prevent snow drifts, ensuring the smooth operation of the railroad during harsh winter months.
The B&MR played a crucial role in the transportation of agricultural products and livestock. In 1872-73, thousands of Texas Longhorns, driven from the vast ranches of Texas, were shipped from Lowell, Nebraska, on the B&MR line. Sugar beets and prairie hay were also primary freight items, reflecting the agricultural bounty of the region.
In 1872, a significant turning point occurred when the Chicago, Burlington, and Quincy Railroad acquired the B&MR. At the time, the B&MR had already begun laying tracks towards Denver, Colorado, a project that was completed by the CB&Q ten years later. Under the ownership of the CB&Q, the B&MR continued to operate as a subsidiary, managing several lines in the Black Hills of South Dakota. These lines included those acquired when the CB&Q took over the Black Hills and Fort Pierre Railroad in 1901.
During World War II, the B&MR played a vital role in supporting the war effort. As many as 200 carloads of cement, steel, and Weeping Water limestone were transported to Nebraska for highway construction, contributing to the infrastructure needed for military transport and defense.
The 24-mile Kenesaw-Kearney segment of the B&MR track carried its last train on November 3, 1976, marking the end of an era. Except for a 1.8-mile stretch of right-of-way, including the Platte bridges, which was designated as a Nebraska Game and Parks Commission hike-bike trail, the land was sold.
Today, a historical marker stands on the grade between Lowell and Newark, Nebraska, commemorating the legacy of the Burlington and Missouri River Railroad. This marker serves as a reminder of the railroad’s vital role in shaping the history and development of the American West.
The Burlington and Missouri River Railroad stands as a symbol of ambition, innovation, and perseverance. From its humble beginnings to its pivotal role in connecting communities, transporting goods, and fostering economic growth, the B&MR left an indelible mark on the landscape and the lives of those who lived along its path. Its story is a testament to the transformative power of railroads and their enduring legacy in American history.