BOXCAR

A boxcar is a railroad car that is enclosed and generally used to carry general freight. The boxcar, while not the simplest freight car design, is probably the most versatile, since it can carry most loads. Boxcars have side doors of varying size and operation, and some include end doors and adjustable bulkheads to load very large items. Boxcars are generally used for loads which must be protected from the weather.

The Minnesota and International reached Big Falls in 1905 and was to be completed to International Falls. However, the Northern Pacific interests showed little enthusiasm for building the last thirty-four miles of track to the border city. Mr. Backus then organized the Big Fork and International Railway Company in 1906 and began to lay track from Big Falls north. Before that company completed its task, the Northern Pacific had a change of heart, took over, and finished the job.

The M & I was later operated by the Northern Pacific and is now part of the Burlington Northern Railroad system. To give the Backus interests access to both the Duluth, Winnipeg and Pacific and the Minnesota and International railroads the Minnesota, Dakota and Western (M. D. & W.) Railroad laid connecting tracks to both of those lines. The M.D. & W. was extended west from Nakoda on the M amp& I to Loman and was used for shipping timber to the mills in International Falls.

It was said to be Mr. Backus's dream that the MD & W Railway be extended west from Loman to the Dakota's to haul wheat to the flour mills to be erected in International Falls.

In St. Paul on April 11, 1901. The Minnesota and International Railroad, incorporated by the Northern Pacific, and of which C. S. Mellen is President, to-day asked permission of the Secretary of State to increase its capital stock for the purpose of buying the Brainerd and Northern Railroad, a majority of stock of which is owned by the Northern Pacific.

Minnesota & International Railroad

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Posted 21 Aug 2014