Amazing that that mixed train lasted so long even after the mines at Dawson closed which was probably the majority of the business.

In those days, the ICC expected a railroad to provide service at a loss where there was a demand for it. The railroads had to prove it was an unreasonable burden on the company to subsidize passenger and branch service. As a mixed train, the railroad couldn't really prove a substantial cost to provide passenger service since the same crew and engine were used with a combine in place of a caboose. I think many times it was politically expedient to continue passenger service on mixed trains until the entire branch was abandoned.

By contrast SP was quick to get rid of most passenger service on the Oregon branches but the improved road network allowed truck, bus and private cars to replace it. SP also seemed to prefer running many of the Oregon branchlines as extra trains providing service levels as needed rather than on a set schedule.

Anyone remember Santa Fe's York Canyon coal trains? Evidently they used part of the old Dawson branch right of way. I guess the line is now mothballed pending demand and development of new coal reserves.