Mile 16.4: Pere Marquette Junction
E1 spotting an L&PS boxcar at Edison Phonograph.
The L&PS had a long and friendly relationship with the Pere Marquette. In fact, the PM leased and operated the L&PS from 1902 through to the L&PS's electrification in 1914. After that, the PM retained running rights on a small section of the L&PS route to allow it to reach points east. This service facility, at the south end of St. Thomas, continued in operation through the diesel era until 1986 when the CSXT ceased operations in the area.
The L&PS main line passes around the back of the PM roundhouse. The PM car shops were inconveniently located on the opposite side of the L&PS main. They had to build a spur to the shops that included a manually operated signal to protect the crossover diamond.
(MSTS Screenshot)
Elm Street looking West. In a twist of irony, the PM's coal yard, seen in the background, was supplied by the L&PS's electric locomotives.
(MSTS Screenshot)
J. Still Manufacturing were one of several companies in the area making hardwood handles for the hand tools manufactured at nearby foundries.
(MSTS Screenshot)