SP Isleton Branch
Author: ke6qr
Date: 09-04-2017 - 22:44
IM looking for some additional information on the SP Isleton Branch. I have been boating in the delta for 45 years now and can remember seeing drawbridges of the branch on both Georgiana and Snodgrass Sloughs in the open position until the mid or late 1980s. I know the branch was originally constructed to be part of the First transcontinental railroad between Sacramento and Oakland but only made it as far as Isleton. I also know this is part of the CSRM Sac. Southern excursion line. When did the last train run to Isleton? Where was the yard and customers located? What about other customers on the line? I can remember seeing tracks running through Locke and Walnut Grove as late as 1981 but I think they were paved over in places. The Drawbridges disappeared (removed) somewhere in the late 80s. I have tried to explore the right of way on google earth and some of it has been obliterated. Searching in my boat I think I have found what may have been the location of the drawbridges. Behind Locke there is a slough known as railroad slough and the right of way is in pretty good shape, a nice place to anchor your boat. When were the rails pulled up? Any additional information would be great, Thank-you in advance.