CHICAGO NORTHWESTERN 400 - wiki

Chicago & Northwestern's "400": A Streamlined Train

The Chicago & Northwestern's "400" was a streamlined passenger train operating between Chicago and the Twin Cities (Minneapolis and St. Paul) beginning in 1935. Its name reflected the goal of completing the 400-mile journey in 400 minutes. The train became a symbol of speed and luxury during the golden age of rail travel.

History and Development

Introduced in 1935, the first "400" trains were not originally designed as streamlined trains. The Chicago & North Western Railway (C&NW) saw the success of other railroads' streamlined services and sought to compete. They upgraded existing equipment to offer a faster and more comfortable ride. However, in 1939, the railroad acquired new, purpose-built streamlined equipment. These later versions were significantly more aesthetically pleasing and comfortable, solidifying the "400's" image as a top-tier train. bone thugs chicago

The Route and Service

The primary route for the "400" was between Chicago and the Twin Cities. Over time, the C&NW introduced various "400" trains on different routes, often named after the destinations served, such as the "Peninsula 400" to Michigan's Upper Peninsula and the "Rochester 400" to Rochester, Minnesota. These trains generally offered coach and parlor car service. famous comedians from chicago Dining car service was also a standard feature on longer routes.

Equipment

The original "400" trains used rebuilt heavyweight passenger cars. Later iterations featured lightweight, streamlined cars built by Pullman-Standard. These cars were typically painted in the C&NW's signature green and yellow livery. Motive power initially consisted of upgraded steam locomotives, followed by diesel locomotives as they became more prevalent. harry.potter store chicago You can explore more about the history of the Chicago & Northwestern Railway on Wikipedia.

Decline

Like many passenger trains, the "400" faced declining ridership in the post-World War II era due to the rise of automobiles and air travel. hotels near the riviera theater chicago The Chicago & North Western gradually reduced service on the "400" routes. By the late 1960s, most of the "400" trains had been discontinued. The final remnants of the "400" service were absorbed into other routes or eliminated entirely.

FAQs

Why was the train called the "400"?

The name "400" reflected the original goal of completing the 400-mile journey between Chicago and the Twin Cities in 400 minutes.

What type of service did the "400" offer?

The "400" offered coach and parlor car service, as well as dining car service on longer routes.

When did the "400" trains begin operating?

The Chicago & Northwestern's "400" began operating in 1935.

What kind of locomotives were used to power the "400" trains?

Initially, upgraded steam locomotives were used. Later, diesel locomotives powered the "400" trains.

Why did the "400" service decline?

The "400" service declined due to increased competition from automobiles and airplanes.

Summary

The Chicago & Northwestern's "400" was a prominent passenger train that symbolized speed, luxury, and the golden age of rail travel. Despite its eventual decline due to changing transportation trends, the "400" remains a significant part of railroad history.