The Grand Trunk Western Coal Tower: A Marvel Of Industrial Engineering

Richard Leonard's Random Steam Photo Collection Grand Trunk Western

Introduction

In the early 20th century, the Grand Trunk Western Railroad Company built a coal tower in Durand, Michigan, to service its locomotives. The tower was an impressive feat of industrial engineering and became an iconic landmark of the railroad industry. Today, the tower remains a testament to the ingenuity and innovation of the past.

Design and Construction

The Grand Trunk Western Coal Tower was designed by the railroad company’s own engineers and built in 1909. The tower was constructed of steel and stood 175 feet tall. It was designed to hold up to 500 tons of coal and to load coal onto passing locomotives at a rate of 75 tons per hour.

Function and Use

The Grand Trunk Western Coal Tower was a critical part of the railroad’s operations. It was used to refuel locomotives with coal, which was essential for powering the trains. The tower was able to load coal onto trains quickly and efficiently, which helped the railroad to run smoothly and on schedule.

Impact on Railroad Industry

The Grand Trunk Western Coal Tower was a significant technological advancement for the railroad industry. The tower allowed locomotives to be refueled quickly and efficiently, which helped to reduce downtime and increase productivity. The tower also allowed the railroad to transport goods more quickly and efficiently, which helped to drive economic growth in the region.

Preservation and Restoration

The Grand Trunk Western Coal Tower was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1980. Since then, the tower has undergone several restoration projects to preserve its historic significance. Today, visitors can tour the tower and learn about its history and importance to the railroad industry.

Conclusion

The Grand Trunk Western Coal Tower is an impressive example of industrial engineering and innovation. It played a critical role in the operations of the Grand Trunk Western Railroad Company and helped to drive economic growth in the region. Today, the tower remains a beloved landmark and a testament to the ingenuity and innovation of the past.