Trona Railway: Handling Mineral Deposits Since 1914
Last revised: September 2, 2024
By: Adam Burns
As early as the late 19th century mining had been ongoing around the Searles Dry Lake region to harvest the rich calcium deposits
located there.
The lake's minerals are very useful in various industrial processes, which lured businesses to the area in an attempt to extract the product in large quantities for resale.
This would lead to the creation of the Trona Railway (reporting marks, TRC) around 1913 and its parent built a 30-mile line to move the minerals via a connection with Class I Southern Pacific.
Today, the short line continues to remain profitable moving essentially the same freight although it has diversified a bit over the years.
The railroad became popular with railfans due to its roster of rare Baldwin road-switcher diesels. Today, these have long since been retired and it relies mostly on Electro-Motive six-axle units to move the heavy tonnage.
The future for the Trona appears to be quite good as there remains a demand for the calcium minerals it transports.
Two of Trona Railway's venerable AS616's #52 and #54, perform switching work at the Kerr-McGee Plant in the road's hometown during a very warm August day in 1990. Drew Jacksich photo.The history of the Trona Railway begins in 1913 when the town of Trona was established by the American Trona Corporation along the northwest shore of the Searles Lake.
The town was wholly owned by the company to provide a base for its operations of harvesting various mineral deposits along the dry lake bed, such as borax, potash, lime, and soda ash among others.
The isolated town was literally created in the middle of nowhere but still drew in a large workforce, despite the fact that employees were paid with company scrip and not cash (scrip was almost a slave-like type of payment as workers could only use it at company-run businesses).
Soon after the establishment of Trona the company incorporated the Trona Railway on March 12, 1913 to move the large amounts of minerals being mined and construction began on the new line later that year on September 22, 1913.
The 30.5-mile route from Trona to Searles was completed by March of 1914, which also connected the small hamlets of Westend, Pinnacle, and Spangler.
At Searles (a town south of the lake) the railroad established an interchange with the Southern Pacific, which operated a branch from Mojave Junction to Lone Pine near the Sequoia National Park.
Operations on the Trona Railroad, though, did not actually begin until September 6, 1914. Initially, primary freight traffic included potash as World War I hit the nation just a few years after the line opened.
The mineral is an important element in the creation of gunpowder and at the time Searles Lake was the only reliable source available anywhere in the United States.
However, other minerals like those mentioned above also came into demand since they are used in the drilling industry.
Interestingly, with the boom of traffic experienced during World War I the American Trona Corporation built a massive 25,000 square foot industrial building in 1916 at the Port of Los Angeles in San Pedro to process the potash being shipped from its mines at Trona.
It was only used for a few years after new advancements in the refinement process yielded the building obsolete and it was sold to the U.S. Navy in 1920 for $200,000.
Today, it is still under military ownership (U.S. Air Force) and has been listed on the National Register of Historic Places since 1982. When the Trona Railway first began operations it primarily used 2-8-0 Consolidations built by the Baldwin Locomotive Works purchased new in 1914.
Soon after it picked up its largest steamer, ex-Southern Pacific/Los Angeles & Salt Lake 2-8-2 Mikado #3701, which it numbered 2701.
For railfans, however, interest in the Trona began in the early 1950s when it began to purchase new Baldwin diesel locomotives. The first of these arrived on the property in 1949, two DT-6-6-2000s #50-51.
Then, between 1954 and 1986 it picked up three more AS616s listed as #52-54. The #52 was the last new locomotive the railroad ever purchased, which arrived in March of 1954.
Its two siblings were bought secondhand from the SP (1960) and Rayonier, Inc. of Hoquiam, Washington (1986). From this point its roster did not change again until the 1990s, as it was apparently quite happy with its Baldwins (while traditionally troublesome to maintain Baldwins are renowned for their ability to pull heavy loads), which certainly did not disappoint railfans!
However, it did retire its two DT-6-6-2000s in 1973, selling them to the Peabody Coal Company (which scrapped them a few years later in 1977).
In 1993 the Trona Railway began leasing six SD45-2s from Helm Financial Corporation (HLMX or Helm), #3001-3006, that were ex-Santa Fe units.
This came in response to its retirement of its three AS616s which were acquired by Johnston Terminal of Oklahoma. In 2002 Trona again owned its own locomotives when it began purchasing a wide range of secondhand Electro-Motive units; SD40T-2s, SD40-2s, an SD40R, an SD9, and an SW1200 (it also acquired an SD40-2 in 2000). Today, these units still make up its fleet.
In the past 20 years or so the mining operation at Trona, and the railroad, have come under several different owners including Kerr-McGee Chemical Corporation, North American Chemical, IMC Global, to today's Searles Valley Minerals Inc.
Union Pacific, SP's successor, has also cut back its branch from Lone Pine to just above Searles since the short line is the only remaining customer on the route.
Today, the Trona carries a wide range of mineral traffic including sulfuric acid, soda ash, potash, salt cake, borax, coal, general minerals, and even has the U.S Navy as a customer.
It should be noted that for the railroad's first twenty years it
provided passenger train services but due to little demand ended this by
1937.
Recent Articles
-
South Dakota 'Beer Tasting' Train Rides
May 23, 26 12:51 PM
While the 1880 Train's regular runs are a treat in any season, the Oktoberfest Express adds an extra layer of fun: German-inspired food, seasonal beer, and live polka set against the sound and spectac… -
Michigan 'Beer Tasting' Train Rides
May 23, 26 12:49 PM
If you’re looking for a pure slice of autumn in West Michigan, the Coopersville & Marne Railway (C&M) has a themed excursion that fits the season perfectly: the Oktoberfest Exp… -
Indiana 'Murder Mystery' Dinner Train Rides
May 23, 26 12:47 PM
This piece explores the allure of murder mystery trains and why they are becoming a must-try experience for enthusiasts and casual travelers alike. -
Maryland 'Ice Cream' Tasting Train Rides
May 23, 26 12:46 PM
Among WMSR's shorter outings, one event punches well above its “simple fun” weight class: the Ice Cream Train. -
Colorado 'Father's Day' Train Rides
May 23, 26 12:43 PM
With its rugged mountains, rich railroading history, and picturesque landscapes, Colorado sets the perfect stage for a memorable Father's Day outing aboard a vintage train. -
California 'Father's Day' Train Rides
May 23, 26 12:41 PM
Celebrate and honor dad by train on a scenic rail experience! Find out which locations in California host these unique trips. -
Kentucky 'Wine Tasting' Train Rides
May 23, 26 12:40 PM
Kentucky, often celebrated for its rolling pastures, thoroughbred horses, and bourbon legacy, has been cultivating another gem in its storied landscapes; enjoying wine by rail. -
Florida 'Wine Tasting' Train Rides
May 23, 26 11:56 AM
Wine by train not only showcases the beauty of Florida's lesser-known regions but also celebrate the growing importance of local wineries and vineyards. -
Southern 2-8-2 4501 Debuts In "Virginia Green"
May 23, 26 11:54 AM
Southern Railway 2-8-2 #4501 debuted in its return to Virginia Green at the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum today, May 23, 2026. -
NS Unveils First America250 Locomotive: 1776, "The Bell"
May 22, 26 11:15 PM
On May 22, 2026 Norfolk Southern unveiled its first in the America250 heritage locomotives series, 1776, "The Bell". -
Reading & Northern Issues Safety Directive Ahead Of 4014 Visit
May 22, 26 12:01 PM
With thousands of tickets sold for its upcoming series of Semiquincentennial Steam Celebration excursions, Reading & Northern Railroad is also anticipating thousands more trackside spectators to bear… -
Ohio 'Murder Mystery' Dinner Train Rides
May 22, 26 11:36 AM
The murder mystery dinner train rides in Ohio provide an immersive experience that combines fine dining, an engaging narrative, and the beauty of Ohio's landscapes. -
Tennessee 'Murder Mystery' Dinner Train Rides
May 22, 26 11:31 AM
Amidst the rolling hills and scenic landscapes of Tennessee, an exhilarating and interactive experience awaits those with a taste for mystery and intrigue. -
Alabama 'Father's Day' Train Rides
May 22, 26 11:29 AM
Alabama, with its rich railway heritage and scenic countryside, is a wonderful way to experience by train. One location even hosts a special trip for Father's Day! -
North Carolina 'Father's Day' Train Rides
May 22, 26 11:26 AM
Celebrating dad on a scenic train in North Carolina can be found at the New Hope Valley Railway which hosts a special event for the day. -
Texas 'Wine Tasting' Train Rides
May 22, 26 11:25 AM
This article invites you on a metaphorical journey through some of these unique wine tasting train experiences in Texas. -
New York 'Wine Tasting' Train Rides
May 22, 26 11:22 AM
This article will delve into the history, offerings, and appeal of wine tasting trains in New York, guiding you through a unique experience that combines the romance of the rails with the sophisticati… -
The Spirit of America: George H.W. Bush’s 1992 Campaign Train
May 22, 26 11:11 AM
In the fading days of summer 1992, President George H. W. Bush embarked on a classic American political tradition: the whistle-stop tour. -
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.
