Trains in Indiana

By: Piper Cleveland and Berlynn Sommer

The state of Indiana is commonly referred to as “The Crossroads Of America.” This is partially because Indianapolis was the first U.S. city whose growth was very dependent on trains. But because there are many new modes of transportation, people don't usually take trains anymore. So, what purposes do trains serve now?

Today in Indiana there are 39 active train lines.

One type of train is a freight or cargo train. Instead of carrying people, these trains carry goods. Some of the contents in these trains are mail, coal (other mining material) and food! A freight train is powered by locomotives, a power source that supplies energy to the train's carriages.

Another type is called a passenger train. Passenger trains are used to transport people to different locations. This could be to a different city or even state! Passenger railways in Indiana are run by the Amtrak Railway service. There is even a stop here in Indianapolis at Union Station!

Seventh grader Flynn Johnson likes trains because they have a cool process of being made, and because “They help deliver stuff.”

Do you like trains? Make sure to tell us at 84post.org!