The line served as a principle mainline between the iron range and the Twin Ports of Duluth and Superor.
Because of this, the entire line was heavily built with double tracked standards. While expensive, this ensured the best service would occur on the line.
The DM&N merged together with the Duluth & Iron Range Railroad to form the Duluth, Missabe & Iron Range Railroad in 1938.
The DM&IR continued to operate this line. Unfortunately, traffic took a significant fall after the Second World War, and the line was downgraded to a branch.
By 1977, the DM&IR abandoned the line. In the 1990s, the State of Minnesota took ownership of the line.
Currently, the line serves as the Alborn-Pengilly Rail Trail between the namesake towns.
08/18/21
Located in the town of Alborn, this simple through girder bridge crosses the BNSF Railway (former Great Northern).
Built in 1919, the bridge features three through girder spans set onto steel and concrete substructures. When constructed, the bridge carried two tracks. However, only one space is in use as a trail.
Overall, the bridge appears to be in good condition. There is some deterioration to the concrete.
The author has ranked this bridge as being locally significant, due to the common design.
The photo above is an overview.