Cadiz Railroad

The Cadiz Railroad was a shortline railroad originating in Cadiz, Kentucky.^[1][2] Incorporated in 1901, it ran to a connection with the Illinois Central Railroad at Gracey, Kentucky, a distance of ten miles. The line started service in 1902.^[3] In 1984, it obtained an additional 18 miles with the purchase of the Illinois Central line from Gracey to Princeton, Kentucky.

Locomotives in the later years were two Alco S1 660 Horsepower, Nos. 8 and 9, and Alco S3 660 HP No. 10. Loco No. 8 had its engine removed and is being used today as a display on the old roadbed at Cadiz.

The railroad hauled lumber, furniture, farm chemicals, and scrap, but was originally built to haul tobacco to market.

The line was abandoned in 1985 and its rails were removed.

In later years, at least 2.5 miles of the old Cadiz Railroad - from Jefferson Street to Fortner Drive - were converted to a walking/running/biking trail. It runs between an old railroad depot on Ky. 139 and Fortner Drive at the east end of town. The trail parallels Noel Drive and Lafayette Street, following an old corridor of the Cadiz Railroad. ^[4]

References

^{[5] [6] [7]}

1. "Freight Rolls Profitably Over 10 Mile Railroad". The Milwaukee Journal. June 18, 1940.
2. "Historical Society Will Honor Cadiz Railroad With Jamboree". Kentucky New Era. July 3, 1954.
3. "First Shipment Over Cardiz Railroad". Kentucky New Era. March 28, 1902.
4. "Cadiz Railroad Trail". TrailLink.com.
5. American Shortline Railway Guide, Edward A. Lewis, 1st Ed.
6. American Shortline Railway Guide, Edward A. Lewis, 3rd Ed.
7. 1948 Handy Railroad Atlas Of The United States, Kalmbach Publishing