On the east end, the line had to cross through the most difficult terrain in the state, often requiring following and crossing the Root River, as well as following valleys and hills. However, once past Spring Valley, the grading would become much easier.
By 1878, the line was extended from Winnebago to Flandreau, South Dakota, an additional 138 miles.
The following year, the line would reach into Sioux Falls. At the same time, in 1880, the Southern Minnesota Railroad would be purchased by the Chicago, Milwaukee & St. Paul Railway.
The railroad changed its name to the Chicago, Milwaukee St. Paul & Pacific Railway in 1928.
The Milwaukee Road was often times a poor railroad, and this accelerated its demise.
A major 100 mile section would be abandoned in 1980 from La Crescent to Ramsey, where it met another Milwaukee Road Mainline.
In addition, the portion west of Jackson to Sioux Falls would be abandoned the same year.
While typical abandonments include property either sitting with the railroad, or being reverted to landowners, this segment was different.
The portion from Ramsey to Dexter was kept in public hands, and from Dexter to Money Creek Woods was kept as a trail.
The Milwaukee Road was purchased by the Soo Line in 1985. Soo Line in turn sold this line to Iowa, Chicago & Eastern in 1997.
IC&E eventually came part of the Dakota, Minnesota & Eastern, who in turn merged with Canadian Pacific in 2008. CP currently operates the line between Ramsey and Jackson.
06/16/22
Located just east of Lanesboro, this through truss bridge is the fifth crossing of the Root River.
Originally built in 1899, the bridge consists of a single 6-panel pin connected Pratt Through Truss span. This particular design was commonly used from 1895 to 1900. In addition, the truss is approached by a long trestle and is supported by concrete substructures.
In 1916, a flood undermined a pier, requiring the construction of the current substructures.
Overall, the bridge appears to be in good condition. The bridge has received minor rehabilitation in recent years.
Historic photo of the bridge with flood damage
The author has ranked the bridge as being moderately significant, due to the truss design.
The photo above is looking across the bridge.
| Upstream | Stewartville Rail Bridge |
| Downstream | Confluence With S. Branch Root River |