Omaha, Abilene and Wichita Railway facts for kids
The Omaha, Abilene and Wichita Railway was a short-lived railway company in the United States. It was created to help the larger Chicago, Rock Island and Pacific Railway expand its network across the country.
Contents
What Was the Omaha, Abilene and Wichita Railway?
The Omaha, Abilene and Wichita Railway was a company formed to build new train tracks. It was meant to be an extension of a much bigger railway system, the Chicago, Rock Island and Pacific Railway. This larger company wanted to connect more cities and towns.
How the Railway Started
This railway company officially began on July 7, 1885. Its main purpose was to help the Rock Island railway grow. The Rock Island company was looking to make its network bigger and reach new areas.
The Railway's Planned Route
The Omaha, Abilene and Wichita Railway had a specific route in mind. It was planned to start in St. Joseph, Missouri. From there, the tracks would go through Topeka, Kansas. The line would then continue to Wichita, Kansas. Finally, it aimed to connect to Beatrice, Nebraska. This route would have linked important cities in the Midwest.
The Railway's Short Life
The Omaha, Abilene and Wichita Railway did not operate for very long under its own name. In 1886, its plans and rights were sold. They were bought by a new company called the Chicago, Kansas and Nebraska Railroad. This new company was also a part of the larger Rock Island railway system. So, the original goals of expanding the railway network continued, but under a different name.
