MAY 2026: Wisconsin & Southern has seen more than a decade of growth and change as part of the Watco family of short lines. Jordan Rein takes us trackside to explore this evolving Midwestern operation. Gordon Lloyd examines the history of Alco diesel power in Michigan, while Eric Williams’ beautiful photo essay recalls the disappearing pole lines that once lined the nation’s railroads. David P. Ori invites us into the cab for a 1982 round-trip ride aboard Chessie System’s fast intermodal piggyback trains to Chicago and back. All this and more in the May issue of Railfan & Railroad!

RailNews

Amtrak Begins Search for New Long-Distance Equipment

Amtrak announced April 15 that it had issued a formal request for suppliers to build a new fleet of long-distance passenger cars to replace its aging Superliners.

RailNews

N&W 611, MILW 261 to Hit Main Line This Summer

Two well-known 4-8-4 locomotives will lead excursions in June and July in Virginia and Minnesota.

Extra Board

Wisconsin & Southern in the Watco Era

More than a decade has passed since Midwestern regional Wisconsin & Southern Railroad came under the ownership of Watco.

Extra Board

Riding Chessie’s Jets

Ride along on two of Chessie System’s hot piggyback intermodal trains between New Castle, Pa., and Chicago in 1982.

Photo Line

Photo Line: A Preview of CRP&A’s Conversations 2026

The Center for Railroad Photography & Art’s annual conference visits Indianapolis from April 24 to 26, featuring yet another great lineup of railroad image makers.