Mike Butler 112 pages softcover
The Chili Line was the
Denver and Rio Grande Railroad's narrow gauge route from Antonito,
Colorado, to Santa Fe, New Mexico. It operated along its 125-mile route
from 1880 to 1941. The Chili Line received its unique nickname from the
chili peppers which farmers along the route would string on lines to
dry. This book celebrates the history of the railroad, as well as people
and places along the line. The Chili Line passed through Hispanic
villages and Indian Pueblos, and its effect upon them is noted.
Travelers today can still find traces of the Chili Line in existence,
such as railroad depots in Antonito, Embudo, and Santa Fe. Water tanks
can be seen in Tres Piedras and Embudo. Roadbed for the tracks may still
be seen along the Rio Grande. Historic photos of railroad operations at
these places are included in the book, as well as contemporary photos
showing the same sites today. Maps are included to allow readers to
track the Chili Line's route.
The Chili Line Railroad to Santa Fe takes readers along the route
of a long-abandoned rail line, but one still very much alive in the
hearts of rail fans and history lovers today.
