Frisco Timetables (August, 1952)

Published: April 16, 2026

Featured here is the Frisco's public timetables from the August, 1952 issue of The Official Guide Of The Railways. The tables include both the railroad's passenger trains as well as its freight-only lines

The St. Louis-San Francisco Railway (SLSF), often known as the "Frisco," was a major American rail company in the mid-19th to mid-20th century, founded in 1876. Initially, it connected St. Louis, Missouri, to Springfield and Pacific, Missouri, eventually reaching Fort Smith, Arkansas, by 1882.

The line further extended to Texas, Kansas City, Oklahoma, and Memphis. Through mergers and expansions, the Frisco system grew, operating over 5,000 miles of track.

The company was significant for its development of the Southwestern United States, moving freight and passenger services across the Midwest. Frisco was particularly known for hauling agriculture, coal, and other raw materials that facilitated the economic development of the region. The line played a pivotal role in World War II, transporting military equipment and soldiers.

However, financial troubles led to its first bankruptcy in 1893, with another following in 1913. Despite periodic recoveries, by the late 20th century, its profitability declined, culminating in a merger with the Burlington Northern Railroad in 1980. Today, segments of the Frisco line are still operated by BNSF Railway, carrying on its legacy in American railway history.