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<p>In 1882, the Chicago, Milwaukee & St. Paul Railway (Milwaukee Road) constructed a short 21-mile branch line, extending from the existing mainline at Spencer, Iowa to Spirit Lake, Iowa. The line was developed to serve some industry and connect passengers to a popular vacation destination. By the late 19th Century, the Milwaukee Road had developed a large railroad network throughout the Midwest. This line served exclusively as a short branch line. The Milwaukee Road was often in financial trouble, especially after the costly Pacific Extension was completed in 1909. In 1925, the company declared bankruptcy, and reorganized as the Chicago, Milwaukee, St. Paul and Pacific Railroad in 1928. Despite the financial strain, this line remained an important mainline for the Milwaukee Road. Financial hardship continued through the 20th Century for the Milwaukee Road. A segment between Milford, Iowa and Spirit Lake was abandoned in 1974. The Milwaukee Road railroad again filed for bankruptcy in 1977. In 1978, the remainder of the line was abandoned. Today, the line between Milford and Spirit Lake has been reused as part of the Great Lakes Spine Trail; while the remainder has reverted to adjacent property owners.</p>
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