The "Peninsula 400" : Chicago - Green Bay - Ishpeming
Last revised: September 15, 2024
By: Adam Burns
The Chicago & North Western found its original 400 serving Chicago and the Twin Cities a rousing success, even more so following the train's rechristening as a complete streamliner during 1939.
This led to the railroad launching an entire fleet of similarly named trains serving most of the railroad's system across the Midwest.
One of these was the Peninsula 400, introduced in the early 1940s when new diesels and lightweight equipment arrived.
The appropriately-named train served the U.P. of Michigan reaching the northern fringes of the railroad at Ishpeming although its most popular corridor was the densely populated region between Milwaukee, Chicago, and Green Bay.
As patronage declined during the 1950s the C&NW quietly dropped the train's name during the late 1960s although it continued on via a truncated routing.
Following the success of its initial 400 the 'North Western rushed to launch as many new versions of the original as it could.
This process began in January of 1942 when the first sets of lightweight equipment arrived from Pullman-Standard. According to Jim Scribbins in his book The 400 Story four new sets entered service at this time and closely mirrored the original of 1939.
In all, these trains included:
- Shoreland 400/Valley 400 between Chicago and Green Bay (albeit operating via separate routes between those two points)
- Capitol 400 between Chicago and Madison
- Peninsula 400 between Chicago and Ishpeming (Michigan) via Green Bay
- Commuter 400/City of Milwaukee 400 between Chicago and Milwaukee
Photos
Chicago & North Western E8A #5023-B has the "Peninsula '400'" north of Oconto, Wisconsin in September, 1964. Roger Puta photo.History
The Peninsula was listed on C&NW's table as trains #209 northbound and #214 southbound.
According to Scribbins it wasn't long before this 400 surpassed the original in terms of patronage, becoming so popular that it wasn't uncommon to see 14 cars within the consist south of Green Bay and as a result was regularly assigned a pair of diesels to meet demand (the other 400s could normally do with a single head end unit).
The Peninsula, along with the rest of the 400s running at this time normally carried a tavern-lunch counter, diner, parlor, and at least four coaches (sometimes more, such as on the Peninsula, when demand required such).
Interestingly, unlike many other Midwestern roads the 'North Western never utilized domes on any of its trains, a feature that could have certainly drawn more patronage and lessened the blow of declining ridership during the 1950s.
Chicago & North Western's train #214, the eastbound "Peninsula 400" (Green Bay - Chicago), hustles through Kenilworth, Illinois with gallery cars on January 24, 1963. Roger Puta photo.One particularly interesting feature of the train, which had nothing to do with its on board services, was the motive power.
While the C&NW mostly stuck with Electro-Motive's beautiful E series diesels for its streamliners the company also acquired a single model DL-107 from the American Locomotive Company (Alco), #5007A, that was usually assigned to the Peninsula.
This locomotive was the builder's first cab series it ever cataloged in 1939 with a sleek look and long nose created by famed industrial designer Otto Kuhler.
It was the only cab model ever built to sport a unique three-piece front windshield and featured Alco's early model 539T prime mover.
Unfortunately, the troublesome engine proved the DL-107's downfall and few were sold among a handful of variants manufactured through the mid-1940s.
Aside from this unique locomotive the train could normally be found operating with Electro-Motive E3s or E6s during these early years and then later was pulled by E7s or E8s (and sometimes even an F7 during the late era prior to Amtrak).
This panoramic view overlooking Lake Michigan features Chicago & North Western's southbound "Peninsula '400'," led by E3As, arriving at the Lake Front Depot in Milwaukee, Wisconsin during the early 1940s. C&NW publicity photo.During World War II the 'North Western experienced an incredible surge in passenger and freight traffic, which led the carrier to believe such volumes would continue after the conflict ended in 1945.
As a result the C&NW ordered more new equipment and according to Scribbins this included some twenty lightweight 400 coaches from Pullman-Standard during 1946 making it the first western road to receive new cars after the war (the New York Central had been the very first).
Timetable (1952)
Unfortunately for the entire industry, ridership waned after the conflict and hastened as the 1950s wore on. Late during that decade the C&NW began implementing cutbacks to help soften the losses.
One of the most notable ways it did this was through the introduction of bi-level, gallery cars that first entered service in 1958.
This equipment was manufactured by Pullman-Standard and through a deal with the state of Wisconsin enabled the C&NW to end 14 secondary trains that were becoming a significant liability on the balance sheets.
Timetable (April 29, 1962)
| Read Down Time/Leave (Train #209) | Milepost | Location | Read Up Time/Arrive (Train #214) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3:10 PM (Dp) | 0.0 | 11:45 AM (Ar) | |
| 3:30 PM | 12.0 | 11:24 AM | |
| 3:55 PM | 35.9 | 11:01 AM | |
| 4:11 PM | 51.6 | 10:48 AM | |
| 4:23 PM | 61.9 | 10:36 AM | |
| 4:50 PM (Ar) | 84.4 | 10:10 AM (Dp) | |
| 4:55 PM (Dp/Via Fond du Lac) | 84.4 | 10:05 AM (Ar) | |
| 5:40 PM | 117.6 | ||
| 6:14 PM (Ar) | |||
| 6:19 PM (Dp) | |||
| 6:46 PM | 164.3 | ||
| 7:08 PM | 177.2 | ||
| 7:21 PM | 182.6 | ||
| 112.6 | 9:23 AM | ||
| 139.1 | 8:52 AM | ||
| 163.6 | 8:22 AM | ||
| 8:01 PM (Ar) | 200.4 | 7:40 AM (Dp/Via Manitowoc) |
The cars were similar to the commuter coaches the railroad would use in suburban Chicago service but offered upgraded features such as diners, parlors, baggage-taverns, and reclining seat coaches.
Consist (1952)
Scribbins states that some were used on the Peninsula 400 which included coaches, a coach-bar, and a standard parlor. The C&NW went to great lengths to advertise the new cars in promotional material.
For instance, one such piece stated:
"More individual seat space per passenger. Coach seats on both levels are 'comfort-engineered' for easy riding and provide greater space than conventional seats. Single as well as double seating is provided.
Parlor cars with upper and lower 'See-Levels.' Elegant spaciousness keynotes the parlor car with its individual all-position easy chairs. Here you can enjoy the passing scene in quiet comfort from either level."
"Two-level luxury lounge service. Toast your fellow travelers in the country club atmosphere of the be-level Bar-Lounge. Built-in fixtures in the arm of each chair provide a self sufficient serving place for single seats. Table accommodations are available for groups of two or four.
Spacious, sparkling dining cars. A planned effect of openness and colorful room decor makes dining on these trains a festive event. Here a varied menu of freshly prepared meals coupled with courteous service may be enjoyed as your train moves swiftly to its destination."
Final Years
In the end, however, nothing could curtail the growing losses as passengers left the rails for highways and airlines. Scribbins notes that during mid-July of 1969 the C&NW discontinued the Peninsula 400 north of Green Bay and subsequently dropped the 400 title on its remaining trains.
Recent Articles
-
California -- Beer Tasting -- Train Rides
Aug 09, 26 10:56 AM
While the Niles Canyon Railway is known for family-friendly weekend excursions and seasonal classics, one of its most popular grown-up offerings is Beer on the Rails. -
New Jersey -- Beer Tasting -- Train Rides
Aug 09, 26 10:53 AM
On select dates, the Woodstown Central Railroad pairs its scenery with one of South Jersey’s most enjoyable grown-up itineraries: the Brew to Brew Train. -
Georgia -- Wild West -- Train Rides
Aug 09, 26 10:52 AM
Nestled within its lush hills and historic towns, the Peach State offers unforgettable train rides that channel the spirit of the Wild West. -
North Carolina -- Wild West -- Train Rides
Aug 09, 26 10:31 AM
North Carolina, a state known for its diverse landscapes ranging from serene beaches to majestic mountains, offers a unique blend of history and adventure through its Wild West train rides. -
Michigan -- Wine Tasting -- Train Rides
Aug 09, 26 10:28 AM
In this article, we’ll delve into the world of Michigan’s wine tasting train experiences that cater to both wine connoisseurs and railway aficionados. -
Indiana -- Wine Tasting -- Train Rides
Aug 09, 26 10:26 AM
In this article, we'll delve into the experience of wine tasting trains in Indiana, exploring their routes, services, and the rising popularity of this unique adventure. -
Illinois -- Murder Mystery -- Dinner Train Rides
Aug 09, 26 10:19 AM
Among Illinois's scenic train rides, one of the most unique and captivating experiences is the murder mystery excursion. -
Maryland -- Murder Mystery -- Dinner Train Rides
Aug 09, 26 10:05 AM
Maryland is known for its scenic landscapes, historical landmarks, and vibrant culture, but did you know that it’s also home to some of the most thrilling murder mystery dinner trains? -
East Broad Top Railroad Fall Foliage Train Ride (2026)
Aug 09, 26 12:09 AM
The East Broad Top Railroad at Rockhill Furnace / Orbisonia, Pennsylvania is not a mass-market “leaf special” brand so much as a living industrial-history railroad whose public calendar runs deep into… -
Strasburg Rail Road Whiskey on the Rails (2026)
Aug 08, 26 08:28 PM
Whiskey on the Rails is the Strasburg Rail Road’s intimate adult spirits product: a roughly 45-minute to one-hour steam ride through Lancaster County Amish Country aboard historic First Class Dining C… -
Indiana Whiskey & Bourbon Tasting Train Rides
Aug 08, 26 01:53 PM
Among IRE’s most talked-about offerings is the Wine & Whiskey Train—an adults-only, evening-style trip that leans into the best parts of classic rail travel: atmosphere, comfort, and a… -
Minnesota -- Beer Tasting -- Train Rides
Aug 08, 26 01:04 PM
Among the North Shore Scenic Railroad's special events, one consistently rises to the top for adults looking for a lively night out: the Beer Tasting Train. -
New Mexico Whiskey Tasting Train Rides
Aug 08, 26 12:52 PM
New Mexico’s high-desert rail scene has a clear spirits star: Sky Railway in Santa Fe, whose special-event calendar includes Whiskey on the Rails—a 21+ pop-up pairing Santa Fe Spirits with a round tri… -
Connecticut -- Whiskey Tasting -- Train Rides
Aug 08, 26 12:42 PM
While the Naugatuck Railroad runs a variety of trips throughout the year, one event has quickly become a “circle it on the calendar” outing for fans of great food and spirited tastings: the BBQ &a… -
Lake Superior & Mississippi Railroad Fall Foliage Train Rides (2026)
Aug 08, 26 11:44 AM
The Lake Superior & Mississippi Railroad—marketed as the Duluth River Train—offers a volunteer-run, roughly two-hour narrated round trip along the St. Louis River estuary from West Duluth. -
Coopersville & Marne Railway Fall / Pumpkin Trains (2026)
Aug 08, 26 11:19 AM
The Friends of the Coopersville & Marne Railway run West Michigan’s best-known autumn family train: the Pumpkin Train on October weekends, a roughly 90-minute Coopersville–Marne round trip with costum… -
Cape Cod Central Railroad Fall Foliage Train Rides (2026)
Aug 08, 26 11:12 AM
The Cape Cod Central Railroad is southeastern Massachusetts’s main tourist-and-dining rail product: narrated scenic trains and multi-course dining trains from Hyannis, West Barnstable, and Buzzards Ba… -
Boone & Scenic Valley Railroad Fall Foliage Train Rides (2026)
Aug 08, 26 10:39 AM
The Boone & Scenic Valley Railroad in Boone, Iowa is the Midwest’s high-bridge foliage train: Fraser excursions cross the towering Bass Point Creek High Bridge through the Des Moines River valley as h… -
Belfast & Moosehead Lake Railroad Fall Foliage Train Ride (2026)
Aug 08, 26 10:18 AM
The Belfast & Moosehead Lake Railroad markets a dedicated Fall Foliage Train Ride from its Unity, Maine venue: roughly a one-hour round trip through Waldo County woods and farmland when birch, maple… -
Pennsylvania -- Wild West -- Train Rides
Aug 08, 26 10:06 AM
The Keystone State is home to a variety of historical attractions, but few experiences can rival the excitement and nostalgia of a Wild West train ride. -
Alabama -- Wild West -- Train Rides
Aug 08, 26 10:04 AM
Although Alabama isn't the traditional setting for Wild West tales, the state provides its own flavor of historic rail adventures that draw enthusiasts year-round. -
South Dakota -- Wine Tasting -- Train Rides
Aug 08, 26 10:02 AM
For wine enthusiasts and adventurers alike, South Dakota introduces a novel way to experience its local viticulture: wine tasting aboard the Black Hills Central Railroad. -
West Virginia -- Wine Tasting -- Train Rides
Aug 08, 26 10:00 AM
West Virginia, often celebrated for its breathtaking landscapes and rich history, offers visitors a unique way to explore its rolling hills and picturesque vineyards: wine tasting trains. -
New Mexico -- Murder Mystery -- Train Rides
Aug 08, 26 09:58 AM
Among Sky Railway's most theatrical offerings is “A Murder Mystery,” a 2–2.5 hour immersive production that drops passengers into a stylized whodunit on the rails. -
Maryland -- Murder Mystery -- Dinner Train Rides
Aug 08, 26 09:55 AM
Maryland is known for its scenic landscapes, historical landmarks, and vibrant culture, but did you know that it’s also home to some of the most thrilling murder mystery dinner trains? -
Whitewater Valley Railroad Fall Foliage Flyer (2026)
Aug 08, 26 08:27 AM
The Whitewater Valley Railroad markets a dedicated Fall Foliage Flyer each October: a five-hour weekday round trip from Connersville, Indiana to historic Metamora with a two-hour layover for shopping… -
North Shore Scenic Railroad Fall Colors Train Rides (2026)
Aug 08, 26 08:17 AM
The North Shore Scenic Railroad in Duluth, Minnesota—operated with the Lake Superior Railroad Museum from historic Duluth Union Depot—markets the Two Harbors Fall Colors Tour as its headline autumn pr… -
Leadville Railroad Fall Train Rides (2026)
Aug 07, 26 11:55 PM
The Leadville Railroad (formerly marketed as the Leadville, Colorado & Southern) runs from historic Leadville, Colorado—one of the highest incorporated cities in the U.S.—into the surrounding Rockies… -
FWRHS Acquires Nickel Plate Road Business Car No. 1
Aug 07, 26 11:48 PM
The Fort Wayne Railroad Historical Society (FWRHS) has acquired Nickel Plate Road business car No. 1, a 1929 Pullman built for the Van Sweringen brothers’ rail empire. -
Santa Fe Bicentennial SD45-2 No. 5704 To Attend America 250 Event
Aug 07, 26 11:44 PM
The Southern California Railway Museum’s restored Santa Fe Railway SD45-2 No. 5704 is eastbound for the America 250 Locomotive Celebration at the North Carolina Transportation Museum in Spencer, set f… -
IRM Repaints Ingersoll-Rand 91 in 1976 Bicentennial Livery
Aug 07, 26 11:25 PM
Illinois Railway Museum Diesel Department volunteers have cosmetically restored the museum’s oldest diesel locomotive, Ingersoll-Rand No. 91, to the red, white, and blue scheme it wore for the 1976 Un… -
Hocking Valley Scenic Railway Fall Foliage Train Ride (2026)
Aug 07, 26 10:22 PM
The Hocking Valley Scenic Railway in Nelsonville, Ohio is the Hocking Hills region’s dedicated autumn rail product. Each year the railroad markets October Fall Foliage trains—roughly two-hour round tr… -
Delaware & Ulster Railroad Fall Foliage Train Ride (2026)
Aug 07, 26 07:12 PM
The Delaware & Ulster Railroad (DURR) is back as a Catskills heritage operation from Arkville, New York, marketing scenic rides every Saturday through fall 2026. -
Durango & Silverton Fall Foliage Train Ride (2026)
Aug 07, 26 03:19 PM
The Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad is southwest Colorado’s bucket-list autumn steam (and diesel) ride: a climb from Durango through the Animas Canyon toward historic Silverton, with San Jua… -
Michigan -- Murder Mystery -- Dinner Train Rides
Aug 07, 26 12:51 PM
Among the lesser-known treasures of this state are the intriguing murder mystery dinner train rides—a perfect blend of suspense, dining, and scenic exploration. -
Virginia Scenic Sip & Savor Express (2026): Wine & Cider Tasting Train
Aug 07, 26 12:42 PM
The Sip & Savor Express is the Virginia Scenic Railway’s flagship tasting product: a about three-hour guided wine or cider experience with artisan charcuterie, departing from either Louisa or Staunton… -
Virginia -- Murder Mystery -- Dinner Train Rides
Aug 07, 26 12:39 PM
Among the state's railroad attractions, murder mystery dinner trains stand out as a captivating fusion of theatrical entertainment, fine dining, and scenic travel. -
Utah -- Wine Tasting -- Train Rides
Aug 07, 26 12:32 PM
Utah, a state widely celebrated for its breathtaking natural beauty and dramatic landscapes, is also gaining recognition for an unexpected yet delightful experience: wine tasting trains. -
Vermont -- Wine Tasting -- Train Rides
Aug 07, 26 12:25 PM
Known for its stunning green mountains, charming small towns, and burgeoning wine industry, Vermont offers a unique experience that seamlessly blends all these elements: wine tasting train rides. -
North Carolina -- Whiskey Tasting -- Train Rides
Aug 07, 26 12:21 PM
One of the GSMR's most distinctive special events is Spirits on the Rail, a bourbon-focused dining experience built around curated drinks and a chef-prepared multi-course meal. -
Western Maryland Murder Mystery Dinner Train (2026)
Aug 06, 26 02:56 PM
The Western Maryland Scenic Railroad (WMSR) in Cumberland, Maryland runs one of the Mid-Atlantic’s best-known Murder Mystery Dinner Trains: a roughly three-hour, 21+ evening with dinner and interactiv… -
Warren County Winery Train Phillipsburg NJ (2026)
Aug 06, 26 02:37 PM
The Warren County Winery Train, operated by Delaware River Railroad Excursions from Phillipsburg, New Jersey, is a high-frequency wine tasting product. -
River Fox Murder Mystery Dinner Train (2026)
Aug 06, 26 02:19 PM
The River Fox Train (Sacramento RiverTrain operations) in West Sacramento, California runs a Murder Mystery Dinner Train for ages 21+: dinner and dessert plus interactive theater as characters scheme… -
Monticello Railway Museum Murder Mystery Dinner Train (2026)
Aug 06, 26 01:33 PM
The Monticello Railway Museum in Monticello, Illinois hosts the state’s main Murder Mystery Dinner Train: an approximately two-hour evening with a three-course meal prepared by Michaels’ Catering of C… -
Cumbres & Toltec Fall Colors Train Ride (2026): Aspens, Pass & Tips
Aug 06, 26 12:45 PM
The Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad straddles the Colorado–New Mexico line between Chama, New Mexico and Antonito, Colorado—a steam-powered narrow-gauge climb over Cumbres Pass through aspen forests… -
LM&M Murder Mystery Train Lebanon OH (2026)
Aug 06, 26 12:04 PM
The Lebanon Mason Monroe Railroad (LM&M) in Lebanon, Ohio offers a Murder Mystery Train built for Cincinnati/Dayton day-trippers: about three hours total, 21+, with interactive theater from The Murder… -
Heber Valley Wine & Cheese Tasting Train (2026)
Aug 06, 26 11:58 AM
The Heber Valley Railroad in Heber City, Utah markets a Wine & Cheese Tasting Train as its signature adult tasting product: a roughly 90-minute evening ride with a guided five-course wine tasting and… -
Backcountry Wine Train, Campo CA (2026)
Aug 06, 26 11:13 AM
The Backcountry Wine Train is the Pacific Southwest Railway Museum’s adults-oriented wine tasting excursion from the Campo Railroad Museum in San Diego County’s East County high desert. -
Rhode Island -- Wine Tasting -- Train Rides
Aug 06, 26 10:19 AM
It may the smallest state but Rhode Island is home to a unique and upscale train excursion offering wide aboard their trips, the Newport & Narragansett Bay Railroad. -
Maryland -- Whiskey Tasting -- Train Rides
Aug 06, 26 09:46 AM
You can enjoy whiskey tasting by train at just one location in Maryland, the popular Western Maryland Scenic Railroad based in Cumberland.
