Santa Cruz & Monterey Bay Railway: The Ex-Santa Cruz Branch
Last revised: September 10, 2024
By: Adam Burns
If it was not for the Santa Cruz & Monterey Bay Railway, formerly a division of Ed Ellis's Iowa Pacific Railway conglomerate (which operated several short lines across the country), the former Southern Pacific's Santa Cruz Branch may have been abandoned.
The history of this very scenic route, skirting the Pacific Coast northward from Watsonville, California along the Monterey Bay dates back to the late 19th century.
The SC&MB provided freight and passenger service on the route. Today, it is known as the St. Paul & Pacific Railroad, a division of Progressive Rail, Inc.
Long term hopes include increased freight service and eventually operating commuter trains over the corridor.
The route previously operated by the Santa Cruz & Monterey Bay Railway has a history tracing to the 1880s.
With the completion of the Transcontinental Railroad in the spring of 1869 and the growth of the Southern Pacific, California's railroad network expanded rapidly during the last three decades of the 19th century.
Systems both large and small sprung up to serve growing cities, the state's rich agricultural regions, and abundant natural resources.
There were two railroads primarily comprising what is now operated by the Santa Cruz & Monterey Bay;:
- The northern segment from Santa Cruz to Davenport is the remnants of the old Ocean Shore Railroad.
- The southern segment from Santa Cruz to Watonsville was originally the Santa Cruz Railroad.
Santa Cruz & Monterey Bay covered wagons, led by F9A #82, head through Santa Cruz during the early days of service for the new short line in November of 2012. Drew Jacksich photo.The first built was the Santa Cruz Railroad (SCRR), originally organized in June of 1873 by a group of businessmen from Santa Cruz, led by Claus Spreckels and FA Hihn, with hopes of extending a line southward to a connection with the Southern Pacific near Watsonville.
The town of Santa Cruz and local county had initially attempted to lure Southern Pacific into building its main line connecting San Francisco with Los Angeles through their community but unfortunately the growing railroad elected to move its route further east.
Undeterred by this setback community leaders set about building their own railroad.
To fund the project county monies were used along the private investment and to keep costs down the SCRR was built to a three-foot, "narrow-gauge" right-of-way.
Construction began during December of 1873 and used predominantly Chinese immigrants for manual labor. The route largely stayed near the northern coast of Monterey Bay passing through small towns such as Capitola, Aptos, and La Selva Beach.
It took a year to open the first 5 miles east of Santa Cruz during December of 1874.
After another year and legal wrangling the SCRR was finally completed to Watsonville where a connection was made at location known as Pajaro (slightly south of Watsonville).
The railroad largely relied on agricultural products and was fairly successful.
However, severe flooding in early 1881 severely damaged the trestle over the San Lorenzo River and forced the SCRR into bankruptcy after which time it was acquired by Southern Pacific that October.
A few years later in 1887 the SP acquired an inside gateway to the Bay Area by purchasing he South Pacific Coast Railroad, another 3-foot, narrow-gauge line that reached Oakland via San Jose.
Under SP both lines were converted to standard-gauge (4 feet, 8 1/2 inches) for more efficient operation within the rest of its network.
Alas, the original South Pacific Coast, which became profitable as a competitor against SP handling agriculture, timber-based products, other freight, and passengers survived as a through route until only 1940.
That year, strong winter storms in the Santa Cruz Mountains damaged the property beyond repair and it was abandoned between Felton and Los Gatos (the segment from Los Gratos to San Jose survived until 1955 when it, too, was abandoned).
Santa Cruz & Monterey Bay F9A #82 heads past the historic Cocoanut Grove in Santa Cruz with "The Train To Christmas Town" on November 23, 2012. Drew Jacksich photo.Finally, the line north of Santa Cruz to Davenport was built in the early 20th century by a system originally known as the Ocean Shore Electric Railway.
Initially, this project had strong financial backing by San Francisco businessmen who envisioned a coastal electrified line (utilizing 1500 Volts A.C.), double-tracked, running between San Francisco and the port of Santa Cruz.
Construction began in 1905 on the northern and southern ends at Santa Cruz and the Bay Area with a projected completion date by February 1, 1907.
Unfortunately, the Great San Francisco Earthquake of April 18, 1906 damaged the railroad and financially ruined its backers.
The route was never finished running between only San Francisco and Tunitas Creek in the north and Santa Cruz to Swanton (just north of Davenport) in the south.
Despite this setback the system managed to survive for a few years and subsisted on moving agriculture in the north and lumber products in the south.
Unfortunately, lack of traffic, competition, and disagreements with the Southern Pacific forced the little road into bankruptcy in 1910.
It was reorganized as the Ocean Shore Railroad but operated for only another decade before the new owners gave up entirely in 1921.
The Southern Pacific acquired the southern segment, while a section of the northern end was purchased by the large Western Pacific.
The line to Davenport/Swanton saw service throughout the years under SP, as did the old Santa Cruz Railroad, and the former South Coast Pacific as far north as Felton.
In 1996 Southern Pacific was swallowed up by Union Pacific, which later attempted to shed the Santa Cruz Branch from its system.
In 2011 the California Transportation Commission approved purchase of the line and on October 12, 2012 was acquired by Santa Cruz County via the Regional Transportation Commission.
Soon afterwards Iowa Pacific was named operator and launched the all new Santa Cruz & Monterey Bay Railway to provide regular freight service, with customers ranging from lumber products to frozen food manufacturers.
In addition, SC&MB launched public excursions, such as the "Train To Christmas Town" during the holidays.
A pair of Santa Cruz & Monterey Bay covered wagons slowly roll down Walker Street in Watsonville, California with two loads of reefers on August 6, 2014. The train is headed for the interchange with Union Pacific at Pajaro. Drew Jacksich photo.Alas, the big dreams of this operation, and all of Ed Ellis' properties, proved short-lived.
Ellis founded Iowa Pacific in 2001 and by 2015 had grown into a substantial operations that included eight short lines in the United States and two in Great Britain.
His other services included rail travel, car storage, car repairs, car leasing, and property development. Unfortunately, the company overextended itself and with mounting debt was forced into bankruptcy.
By 2020, its rail properties and equipment were sold off to meet its creditor obligations. Today, the former Santa Cruz & Monterey Bay Railway is operated by Progressive Rail, Inc. as the St. Paul & Pacific Railroad. Passenger excursions were not resumed.
Recent Articles
-
Amtrak’s Maple Leaf – Complete Scenic Route Guide 2026
Jul 21, 26 07:29 PM
This 2026 guide covers the route, the strongest scenic stretches, border practicalities, and tips for a smooth New York–Toronto trip. -
Leadville Railroad: Complete 2026 Guide
Jul 21, 26 02:33 PM
This 2026 guide covers the main excursion, what to expect onboard, altitude considerations, and practical tips for a Leadville railroad day. -
Amtrak’s Ethan Allen Express – Complete Scenic Route Guide 2026
Jul 21, 26 01:33 PM
This 2026 guide covers the route, the best scenic stretches, practical travel notes, and tips for foliage and shoulder-season rides. -
East Broad Top Railroad: Complete 2026 Scenic Train Guide
Jul 21, 26 01:05 PM
This guide covers the passenger experience, what makes EBT unique, practical planning notes, and how it fits into a broader Pennsylvania railroad trip. -
Best Steam-Powered Scenic Train Rides in the Eastern U.S. 2026
Jul 21, 26 11:25 AM
Discover the best steam-powered scenic train rides in the Eastern U.S. for 2026. From Cass Scenic Railroad Shays to Strasburg and other heritage steam operations — schedules, highlights, and tips. -
Best Steam Train Rides in America (2026): Top Scenic Steam Experiences
Jul 21, 26 11:23 AM
Looking for the best steam train rides in the United States for 2026? This guide ranks the highest-value scenic steam experiences—railroads where live steam is a core part of the product, not a once-a… -
Western Maryland Scenic Railroad: Complete 2026 Guide
Jul 21, 26 11:08 AM
This 2026 guide covers the main excursion, special trains, what to expect onboard, and practical tips for planning a Cumberland-area railroad day. -
Amtrak’s Sunset Limited – Complete Scenic Route Guide 2026
Jul 21, 26 10:43 AM
This 2026 guide covers the route, the strongest scenic stretches, practical travel notes, and tips for a smooth multi-night trip. -
Amtrak’s Pacific Surfliner – Complete Scenic Route Guide 2026
Jul 21, 26 10:43 AM
This 2026 guide covers the route, the best coastal stretches, practical tips, and how to use the Surfliner as either a day trip or a link in a longer California rail itinerary. -
Ohio’s LM&M Bourbon Train: Whiskey Tasting on the Rails in Lebanon
Jul 20, 26 02:54 PM
Looking for a bourbon tasting that is not another distillery tour queue? The Lebanon Mason & Monroe Railroad (LM&M) in Lebanon, Ohio, runs adult-oriented Food & Drink trains—and its Bourbon Train is o… -
My Old Kentucky Dinner Train: Classic Dining on the Rails in Bardstown
Jul 20, 26 02:44 PM
For travelers who specifically search “dinner train” (not wine tasting, not murder mystery, not Polar Express), Bardstown is still one of the first names that comes up—and for good reason. -
New Hope Railroad: Complete 2026 Scenic Train Guide
Jul 20, 26 02:30 PM
This 2026 guide covers the main scenic product, special trains, what to expect, and how to pair the ride with a day in New Hope. -
Mount Washington Cog Railway: Complete 2026 Guide
Jul 20, 26 02:08 PM
This 2026 guide covers summit and shorter trips, steam vs. biodiesel power, what to expect on the grade, and how to plan around New England’s short, intense peak season. -
Heber Valley Railroad: Complete 2026 Scenic Train Guide
Jul 20, 26 01:41 PM
This 2026 guide covers the main scenic products, special trains, and practical tips for planning a Heber outing. -
Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad: Complete 2026 Guide
Jul 20, 26 01:25 PM
This 2026 guide covers full-line and shorter trip options, what you will see, classes of service, and how to plan a full day on one of America’s great scenic trains. -
Amtrak’s City of New Orleans – Complete Scenic Route Guide 2026
Jul 20, 26 11:25 AM
This 2026 guide covers the route, what to watch for, practical travel information, and tips for a smooth one-night trip. -
Best Dinner Train Rides in America (2026): Top Scenic Experiences
Jul 20, 26 11:13 AM
Looking for the best dinner train rides in the United States for 2026? This guide ranks the highest-value scenic dining experiences—trains where the meal is the main event, not just a snack bar—and po… -
Amtrak’s Auto Train – Complete 2026 Passenger Guide
Jul 20, 26 10:59 AM
This 2026 guide covers how the service works, what the ride is like, practical tips for vehicle loading, and who should choose the Auto Train over flying or driving the whole way. -
Tennessee - Tea Tasting - Train Rides
Jul 20, 26 10:55 AM
If you’re looking for a Chattanooga outing that feels equal parts special occasion and time-travel, the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum (TVRM) has a surprisingly elegant answer: The Homefront Tea Roo… -
Indiana -Ice Cream- Tasting Train Rides
Jul 20, 26 10:45 AM
The Indiana Rail Experience's "Indiana Ice Cream Train" is designed for everyone—families with young kids, casual visitors in town for the lake, and even adults who just want… -
Colorado *Wine Tasting* Train Rides
Jul 20, 26 10:43 AM
To truly savor these local flavors while soaking in the scenic beauty of Colorado, the concept of wine tasting trains has emerged, offering both locals and tourists a luxurious and immersive indulgenc… -
Georgia *Wine Tasting* Train Rides In Cordele
Jul 20, 26 10:22 AM
While the railroad offers a range of themed trips throughout the year, one of its most crowd-pleasing special events is the Wine & Cheese Train—a short, scenic round trip designed to feel like… -
Kansas * Murder Mystery * Dinner Train Ride
Jul 20, 26 10:14 AM
Kansas, known for its sprawling wheat fields and rich history, hides a unique gem that promises both intrigue and culinary delight—murder mystery dinner trains. -
New Hampshire * Murder Mystery * Dinner Train Rides
Jul 20, 26 09:05 AM
The state's murder mystery trains stand out as a captivating blend of theatrical drama, exquisite dining, and scenic rail travel. -
White Pass & Yukon Route: Complete 2026 Scenic Train Guide
Jul 20, 26 12:29 AM
This 2026 guide covers the main Summit Excursion and longer options, what you will see, and how to book around the short, intense summer season. -
Verde Canyon Railroad: Complete 2026 Scenic Train Guide
Jul 20, 26 12:10 AM
This 2026 guide covers the route, classes of service, the best times to ride, and practical tips for a full half-day outing in the Verde Valley. -
Great Smoky Mountains Railroad: Complete 2026 Scenic Train Guide
Jul 19, 26 11:55 PM
This 2026 guide covers the main Nantahala Gorge and Tuckasegee River style excursions, classes of service, peak seasons, and tips for pairing the train with a Smokies vacation. -
Royal Gorge Route Railroad: Complete 2026 Scenic Train Guide
Jul 19, 26 11:54 PM
This 2026 guide covers the route, classes of service, the best times to ride, and practical tips for a Cañon City / Colorado Springs / Pueblo area day trip. -
Strasburg Rail Road: Complete 2026 Scenic Train Guide
Jul 19, 26 11:52 PM
This 2026 guide covers the main excursion product, what to expect onboard, special trains, and practical tips for a smooth family or railfan day trip. -
Santa Fe Railroad (AT&SF): Diesel Roster (All-Time)
Jul 19, 26 08:12 PM
The Atchison, Topeka & Santa Fe Railway was among the earliest and most influential American railroads to embrace diesel-electric motive power. -
America 250 Locomotive Celebration Set for August 28-30 at NCTM
Jul 19, 26 11:22 AM
The North Carolina Transportation Museum, Trains Magazine, and White River Productions have announced the America 250 Locomotive Celebration. -
West Virginia ~ Wild West ~ Train Rides
Jul 19, 26 11:08 AM
While D&GV is known for several different excursions across the region, one of the most entertaining rides on its calendar is the Greenbrier Express Wild West Special. -
Indiana ~ Whiskey Tasting ~ Train Rides
Jul 19, 26 10:56 AM
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… -
Arizona ~ Wine Tasting ~ Train Rides
Jul 19, 26 10:45 AM
For those who want to experience the charm of Arizona's wine scene while embracing the romance of rail travel, wine tasting train rides offer a memorable journey through the state's picturesque landsc… -
Iowa ~ Wine Tasting ~ Train Rides
Jul 19, 26 10:39 AM
The state not only boasts a burgeoning wine industry but also offers unique experiences such as wine by rail aboard the Boone & Scenic Valley Railroad. -
Florida * Murder Mystery * Dinner Train Rides
Jul 19, 26 10:34 AM
Florida, known for its vibrant culture, dazzling beaches, and thrilling theme parks, also offers a unique blend of mystery and fine dining aboard its murder mystery dinner trains. -
New York * Murder Mystery * Dinner Train Rides
Jul 19, 26 10:19 AM
New York State, renowned for its vibrant cities and verdant countryside, offers a plethora of activities for locals and tourists alike, including murder mystery train rides!" -
Georgetown Loop Railroad: Complete 2026 Scenic Train Guide
Jul 18, 26 04:15 PM
This 2026 guide covers the ride experience, mine tour add-ons, best seasons, and how to plan a smooth Denver-area railroad outing. -
Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad: Complete 2026 Scenic Train Guide
Jul 18, 26 02:33 PM
This 2026 guide covers the main National Park Scenic experience, bike-and-rail options, special trains, and practical tips for Northeast Ohio visitors. -
Conway Scenic Railroad: Complete 2026 Scenic Train Guide
Jul 18, 26 01:57 PM
This 2026 guide explains the main trip types, when to book for fall color, and how to plan a North Conway railroad day that fits families and serious scenery hunters alike. -
Cass Scenic Railroad: Complete 2026 Scenic Train Guide
Jul 18, 26 01:30 PM
This 2026 guide covers the main trips, what makes Cass different from ordinary tourist railroads, and how to plan around weather, grades, and peak foliage season. -
Best Scenic Train Rides in America (2026): Top Routes & Day Trips
Jul 18, 26 12:43 PM
There is no single “best” train—only the best match for your region, season, budget, and whether you want multi-day sleepers or a same-day steam excursion. -
Pennsylvania ~ Beer Tasting ~ Train Rides
Jul 18, 26 09:38 AM
Today, EBT’s rebirth has introduced a growing lineup of experiences, and one of the most enticing for adult visitors is the Broad Top Brews Train. -
North Carolina ~ Beer Tasting ~ Train Rides
Jul 18, 26 09:33 AM
If you’re looking for the most “Bryson City” way to combine railroading and local flavor, the Smoky Mountain Beer Run is the one to circle on the calendar. -
California ~ Wine Tasting ~ Train Rides
Jul 18, 26 09:30 AM
This article explores the charm, routes, and offerings of these unique wine tasting trains that traverse California’s picturesque landscapes. -
Arkansas ~ Wine Tasting ~ Train Rides
Jul 18, 26 09:24 AM
This article takes you through the experience of wine tasting train rides in Arkansas, highlighting their offerings, routes, and the delightful blend of history, scenery, and flavor that makes them so… -
Pennsylvania ~ Murder Mystery ~ Dinner Train Rides
Jul 18, 26 09:17 AM
Pennsylvania, steeped in history and industrial heritage, offers a prime setting for a unique blend of dining and drama: the murder mystery dinner train ride. -
New Jersey ~ Murder Mystery ~ Dinner Train Rides
Jul 18, 26 09:15 AM
There are currently no murder mystery dinner trains available in New Jersey although until 2023 the Cape May Seashore Lines offered this event. Perhaps they will again soon! -
USDOT Releases Phase I Penn Station Service Optimization Study
Jul 17, 26 05:56 PM
The U.S. Department of Transportation and Federal Railroad Administration have released the Phase I report of the New York Penn Station Service Optimization Study. -
FRA Expands Automated Track Inspection Tests as CSX Begins Rollout
Jul 17, 26 05:48 PM
The Federal Railroad Administration has green-lighted a broader five-year waiver framework allowing freight railroads to expand Automated Track Inspection (ATI) technology on revenue track.
