Chicago, Rock Island and Pacific Railroad

The Chicago, Rock Island and Pacific Railroad—simply "The Rock" to its many fans—was one of America's most storied and ultimately tragic railroads. The Rock Island was the first railroad to bridge the Mississippi River (1856) and once served 14 states with over 7,500 miles of track.

At its peak, the Rock Island was a vital link in the American transportation network, serving major cities including Chicago, Kansas City, Denver, Minneapolis, and Houston. The railroad's Rocket streamliners were popular passenger trains, and its red and yellow paint scheme was recognized throughout the Midwest.

Unfortunately, the Rock Island fell victim to deferred maintenance, management turmoil, and regulatory issues. After a prolonged bankruptcy, the railroad was liquidated in 1980—the largest railroad failure in American history at that time. The Rock Island's demise was documented in the song "The City of New Orleans" and remains a cautionary tale.

For modelers, the Rock Island evokes nostalgia and offers diverse equipment in an appealing paint scheme. The railroad's fans remain devoted, and Rock Island models are perennial sellers.