Traqueros: Mexican Railroad Workers In The United States, 1870-1930
Last revised: February 24, 2023
The late, Dr. Jeffrey Marcos Garcilazo's book, Traqueros: Mexican Railroad Workers In The United States, 1870-1930, details the contributions of Mexican track workers in building railroads across the Midwestern/Western United States.
While many immigrants helped construct these lines, such as Chinese, African Americans, and Italians there was no authoritative title on the contribution of Mexican labor until Mr. Garcilazo's book was released in 2012.
It includes more than 200 pages of material covering all aspects of their involvement within the railroad industry ranging from the typical discrimination and racism of the period to community life and the traquero culture which sprang up.
You will find no other in-depth material, all within one book, which so thoroughly covers this subject!
The term "traquero" describes the Mexican or Mexican American (Chicano) railroad track worker and was essentially the same thing as the English word for "gandy dancer."
It derives from the Spanglish word "traque" meaning "track." Traqueros: Mexican Railroad Workers In The United States, 1870-1930 grew from Garcilazo's 1993 dissertation work he completed at the University of California Santa Barbara (he was later an assistant professor at the University of California, Irvine).
The book now in print is not the final version Garcilazo envisioned as he was working to prepare it for publication when he unexpectedly passed away in 2001.
Despite his untimely death and, ultimately unfinished book, Garcilazo still provided a detailed, in-depth piece on the "traquero" and the invaluable role they played in building the western railroads.
The book is broken down into six different chapters and also includes a foreward (by Vicki Ruiz), introduction, conclusion, endnotes, bibliography, and index.
The opening chapter, entitled "Railroads And The Socioeconomic Development Of The Southwest" looks at the growth of the railroads across the West and American interests tapping the region's vast natural resources (such as timber and copper).
On August 3, 1881 Luis Terrazas, governor of Chihuahua drove a silver spike symbolizing the completion of direct rail service between Mexico and United States.
This event not only enabled immigrants easier travel into America but also occurred during the West's booming railroad construction of the late 19th century.
Perhaps most interesting is a fact many probably do not realize; Mexicans were the dominant immigrant labor performing trackwork in the Southwest by the turn of the 20th century.
Aside from improved transportation between both countries there were a number of other reasons for an increasing influx of Mexican immigrants during this time, which Garcilazo details in his book; two of the most notable included social unrest in Mexico and anti-Chinese violence during the 1870s and 1880s.
While Chicano's worked in many states/territories west of Chicago and the Mississippi River they were most often found in the Southwest and West from Texas stretching into California.
Their biggest employers were the largest systems in the region including the Atchison, Topeka & Santa Fe (Santa Fe), Southern Pacific, and Denver & Rio Grande (later Denver & Rio Grande Western).
Other notable railroads to utilize a Chicano workforce included the Chicago, Rock Island & Pacific (Rock Island), Northern Pacific, Great Northern, and later the Chicago, Milwaukee & St. Paul (Milwaukee Road) when it built into the Pacific Northwest during the early 1900s.
In chapter two, "Labor Recruitment," Garcilazo highlights the subject, in particular as it related to the Santa Fe.
It is perhaps not surprising that for anyone who has studied the history of America's minority cultures, immigrant labor on the railroads, including Mexicans, constantly dealt with racism and discrimination from fellow coworkers as well as upper management.
The railroads' top brass found employing Mexicans to their liking since they often worked for lower wages and longer hours with, generally, fewer complaints.
Moving into the third chapter, entitled "Work Experiences," Garcilazo details what it was like working day to day on the railroad.
While Chicano's were normally acclimated to a climate most would find insufferable today, along with living conditions less than ideal, the general work proved the greatest danger with few safety regulations in place at that time.
The Interstate Commerce Commission reported trackmen were killed or injured more frequently than any other position in the industry.
By the turn of the 20th century, traqueros had acquired enough skill and seniority (used here only describe their growing years of service and not actual rank within the company, a difficult prospect to achieve at the time) that groups began to assemble, in some manner, for better working conditions.
In chapter four, "Labor Struggles," the book covers this subject and begins by highlighting the first such union, the La Union Federal Mexicana.
The UFM was organized by the traqueros of the Pacific Electric Railway (PE) and narrow-gauge Los Angeles Railway (LARy), the two most prolific streetcar systems to serve the city.
Their goal in the spring of 1903 was to increase wages and overtime pay during weekends. Despite their efforts against owner Henry Huntington they ultimately failed due to lack of representation and power.
In general, Mexicans tended not to organize as rigorously as other groups but did have some success as part of the larger Industrial Workers of the World (IWW) and Knights of Labor.
The final two chapters are entitled "Boxcar Communities" and "Traquero Culture" highlighting the unique lifestyles of the Chicano from their housing in boxcar camps to communal living.
As the years passed Mexican immigrants tended to drift away from track work while others, yearning for better pay, moved to large cities and found work in industrial plants or meatpacking facilities.
By the time of the Great Depression new railroad construction was winding down, and so too the need for unskilled labor.
As former traquero Jesus Ramirez stated, "It is never in the books or papers that the Mexicans built the railroads." However, thanks to Dr. Jeffrey Garcilazo's detailed study that is no longer the case today.
Recent Articles
-
Burlington Northern Timetables (May, 1972)
May 21, 26 11:56 PM
Presented here is the Burlington Northern's condensed freight timetables from the May, 1972 edition of the "Official Guide Of The Railways." -
Whiskey Tasting Train Rides (2026)
May 21, 26 11:12 PM
These rides across the United States offer a sensory journey through lush landscapes and historical corridors, often pairing scenic vistas with curated whiskey tastings. -
Father's Day Train Ride Locations (2026)
May 21, 26 10:54 PM
Celebrate dad by train! Several heritage railroads and museums host trips honoring dads. Learn more about which locations offer such excursions. -
The Chessie Safety Express: Steam-Powered Advocacy for Railroad Safety
May 21, 26 10:44 PM
In the fall of 1980, a gleaming Chesapeake & Ohio (C&O) 4-8-4 steam locomotive named No. 614 thundered across the rails of the Chessie System, pulling a colorful consist of passenger cars filled with… -
Frankfort and Cincinnati Railroad: "The Kentucky Midland Route"
May 21, 26 06:08 PM
The Frankfort & Cincinnati was a small shortline located in north-central Kentucky that was known as "The Whiskey Route" for the many distilleries it served. The F&C shutdown in 1985. -
North Carolina 'Whiskey Tasting' Train Rides
May 21, 26 12:43 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. -
Connecticut 'Whiskey Tasting' Train Rides
May 21, 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 & Bour… -
Kansas "Dinner" Train Rides From Abilene
May 21, 26 12:37 PM
If you’re looking for a heritage railroad that feels authentically Kansas—equal parts prairie scenery, small-town history, and hands-on railroading—the Abilene & Smoky Valley Railroad delivers. -
Vermont "Dinner" Train Rides At Burlington
May 21, 26 12:34 PM
There is one location in Vermont hosting a dedicated dinner train experience at the Green Mountain Railroad. -
New Jersey "Father's Day" Train Rides
May 21, 26 12:24 PM
There are a few locations in New Jersey celebrating dads with a train ride. Learn more about these unique trips here! -
Massachusetts "Father's Day" Train Rides
May 21, 26 12:16 PM
The Cape Cod Central is the one location in the state hosting an event just for dads, a special brunch train. Learn more here! -
Historic Steam Locomotive Heads To Charleston For America250 Exhibit
May 21, 26 11:58 AM
A rare piece of West Virginia industrial history, an 0-4-0F fireless steam locomotive by H.K. Porter in 1945, is being installed near the West Virginia State Capitol Complex in Charleston as part of a… -
Connecticut 'Dinner' Train Rides At Essex
May 20, 26 11:55 AM
Connecticut's rail heritage can be traced back to the industry's earliest days and a few organizations preserve this rich history by offering train rides. The Essex Steam Train also hosts dinner-theme… -
Arkansas 'Dinner 'Train Rides On The A&M
May 20, 26 11:54 AM
If you want a railroad experience that feels equal parts “working short line” and “time machine,” the Arkansas & Missouri Railroad delivers in a way few modern operations can. -
Illinois 'Dinner' Train Rides At The MRM
May 20, 26 11:52 AM
The Monticello Railway Museum (MRM) is one of those places that quietly does a lot: it preserves a sizable collection, maintains its own operating railroad, and—most importantly for visitors—puts hist… -
California 'Murder Mystery' Dinner Train Rides
May 20, 26 11:51 AM
When it comes to experiencing the allure of crime-solving sprinkled with delicious dining, California's murder mystery dinner train rides have carved a niche for themselves among both locals and touri… -
Michigan 'Wine Tasting' Train Rides
May 20, 26 11:50 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
May 20, 26 11:48 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. -
Texas & Pacific Railway Timetables (September, 1937)
May 20, 26 11:10 AM
Featured here is the Texas & Pacific's timetables and system map from the September, 1937 edition of the "Official Guide Of The Railways." -
Norfolk Southern Unveils America250 Locomotive Series
May 20, 26 10:30 AM
Norfolk Southern has rolled out a bold new commemorative series to mark America’s 250th anniversary (the nation’s Semiquincentennial in 2026). -
The Nebraska Zephyr: Burlington's Lincoln Service
May 20, 26 09:49 AM
ntroduced in 1947, the Nebraska Zephyr provided fast, stylish daylight service between Chicago, Illinois, and Lincoln, Nebraska (via Omaha), covering 551 miles (887 km) in under 10 hours at an average… -
Colorado & Southern Timetables (March, 1940)
May 19, 26 11:55 PM
Featured here is the Colorado & Southern's timetables from the March, 1940 edition of the "Official Guide Of The Railways." -
New Jersey "Father's Day" Train Rides
May 19, 26 11:59 AM
There are a few locations in New Jersey celebrating dads with a train ride. Learn more about these unique trips here! -
Illinois 'Murder Mystery' Dinner Train Rides
May 19, 26 11:56 AM
Among Illinois's scenic train rides, one of the most unique and captivating experiences is the murder mystery excursion. -
Kentucky 'Dinner Train' Rides From Bardstown
May 19, 26 11:53 AM
The essence of My Old Kentucky Dinner Train is part restaurant, part scenic excursion, and part living piece of Kentucky rail history. -
Vermont 'Murder Mystery' Dinner Train Rides
May 19, 26 11:50 AM
There are currently murder mystery dinner trains offered in Vermont but until recently the Champlain Valley Dinner Train offered such a trip! -
Ohio - Beer Tasting - Train Rides
May 19, 26 11:49 AM
The Ohio Rail Experience's Quincy Sunset Tasting Train is a new offering that pairs an easygoing evening schedule with a signature scenic highlight: a high, dramatic crossing of the Quincy Bridge over… -
Texas 'Beer Tasting' Train Rides
May 19, 26 11:43 AM
Texas State Railroad's “Pints In The Pines” train is one of the most enjoyable ways to experience the line: a vintage evening departure, craft beer samplings, and a catered dinner at the Rusk depot un… -
South Dakota 'Wine Tasting' Train Rides
May 19, 26 11:40 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. -
New Mexico 'Wine Tasting' Train Rides
May 19, 26 11:33 AM
For oenophiles and adventure seekers alike, wine tasting train rides in New Mexico provide a unique opportunity to explore the region's vineyards in comfort and style. -
Amtrak's First Airo Trainset Arrives in Seattle
May 19, 26 10:01 AM
Amtrak's next-generation Airo passenger trainset has officially arrived in Seattle, marking a major milestone in the railroad's largest fleet overhaul in decades and the start of a new era for travel… -
Maine "Ice Cream" Tasting Train Rides
May 19, 26 09:49 AM
The Maine Narrow Gauge Railroad & Museum’s Ice Cream Train is a family-friendly Friday-night tradition that turns a short rail excursion into a small event. -
TP&W Railway Timetables (January, 1930)
May 18, 26 03:23 PM
Featured here is the Toledo, Peoria & Western Railway's timetables listed in the January, 1930 edition of the "Official Guide Of The Railways." -
CSX SD40-2 8888, "Crazy Eights": The 2001 Runaway Train
May 18, 26 02:02 PM
On May 15, 2001, a single locomotive—CSX SD40-2 No. 8888—began one of the most infamous runaway train incidents in American railroad history. -
North Carolina "Ice Cream Tasting" Train Rides
May 18, 26 01:40 PM
One of the most popular warm-weather offerings at NCTM is the Ice Cream Train, a simple but brilliant concept: pair a relaxing ride with a classic summer treat. -
New York "Ice Cream Tasting" Train Rides
May 18, 26 01:32 PM
While CMRR runs several seasonal excursions, one of the most family-friendly (and, frankly, joyfully simple) offerings is its Ice Cream Express. -
New Mexico 'Murder Mystery' Train Rides
May 18, 26 12:31 PM
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. -
Michigan 'Murder Mystery' Dinner Train Rides
May 18, 26 12:28 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. -
Ohio 'Wine Tasting' Train Rides
May 18, 26 12:24 PM
Among the intriguing ways to experience Ohio's splendor is aboard the wine tasting trains that journey through some of Ohio's most picturesque vineyards and wineries. -
Pennsylvania 'Wine Tasting' Train Rides
May 18, 26 12:22 PM
Wine tasting trains are a unique and enchanting way to explore the state’s burgeoning wine scene while enjoying a leisurely ride through picturesque landscapes. -
Minnesota BBQ Tasting Train Rides
May 18, 26 12:10 PM
If you’re looking for a perfect mix of nostalgia, stunning Lake Superior views, and mouthwatering food, the North Shore Scenic Railroad in Duluth, Minnesota, delivers—literally. -
South Carolina BBQ Tasting Train Rides
May 18, 26 12:05 PM
There is only location in the Palmetto State offering a true dinner train experience can be found at the South Carolina Railroad Museum. Learn more here. -
Cotton Belt Railroad Timetables (January, 1930)
May 18, 26 12:00 AM
Featured here is the St. Louis Southwestern Railway's timetables from the January, 1930 edition of the "Official Guide Of The Railways." -
Pere Marquette Timetables (January, 1930)
May 17, 26 11:42 PM
Presented here is the Pere Marquette Railway's timetables from the January, 1930 edition of the "Official Guide Of The Railways." -
Minneapolis & St. Louis Timetables (August, 1952)
May 17, 26 01:19 PM
Featured here is the Minneapolis & St. Louis Railway's timetables featured in the August, 1952 edition of the "Official Guide Of The Railways." -
Virginia 'Murder Mystery' Dinner Train Rides
May 17, 26 01:10 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. -
Maryland 'Murder Mystery' Dinner Train Rides
May 17, 26 12:42 PM
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? -
Ohio "BBQ Tasting" Train Rides
May 17, 26 11:28 AM
Among the HVSR's most popular special events is the “Starbrick BBQ Ribs and Wings Dinner Train,” a culinary-themed excursion that combines classic barbecue cuisine with a relaxing evening rail journey… -
Florida "BBQ Tasting" Train Rides
May 17, 26 11:24 AM
While Florida does not currently offer any BBQ train rides the Florida Railroad Museum does host a similar event, a campfire experience! -
Wisconsin "BBQ Tasting" Train Rides
May 17, 26 11:18 AM
The Wisconsin Great Northern Railroad will once again welcome passengers aboard its popular Spring BBQ Dinner Train in 2026.
