Words and Photo
David Lustig


A typical lineup in the early days of PHL. Whenever possible, the railroad had a practice of repainting units back into their earlier railroad paint schemes, including Southern Pacific and Chicago & North Western. David Lustig
One has to look no farther than Pacific Harbor Line in the Wilmington area of the ports.

Basically, PHL took over and expanded the role of Harbor Belt Line. Owned by the three major railroads, it served the harbor area. But it was understaffed with ancient power supplemented by equipment from its owners. It was a holdover from the past that to the outside observer never seemed to quite be up to its role.

Then, in 1998 Pacific Harbor Line was born. Operated by Anacostia Rail Holdings Company, the railroad operates 18 route miles of track. Combined with the various yard facilities and leads, the total miles of track is almost 60. Today it provides rail service to the entire port complex through interchange connections with BNSF and Union Pacific.

Extra: Virgil C. Staff lens