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<p>In the late 19th Century, electric interurban railways became popular throughout the United States, particularly in suburban and rural areas. In rural areas, the interurban represented a reliable form of transportation, independent of the steam railroads. In 1910, the Charles City Western Railway (CCW) was charted to construct a combination steam and gasoline powered railroad, extending from Charles City, Iowa and Marble Rock, Iowa. In 1911, the 13-mile long branch line opened to traffic, with gasoline powered engines carrying passenger traffic and steam locomotives carrying freight traffic. In 1915, the CCW electrified their line and an 8-mile extension was built northeast to Colwell, Iowa. By instituting electric operations over the line, the CCW became well known for operating an unusual assortment of secondhand equipment. </p><p>Unlike many interurbans in the United States, the CCW boasted steady passenger traffic into the early 1950s. By 1952, passenger operations were dropped. In 1963, the CCW was purchased by the Iowa Traction Railway (IATR). After a devastating tornado destroyed much of Charles City, the railroad was converted to diesel locomotives to switch remaining freight traffic. In 1986, the CCW was abandoned. Today, much of the roadbed has been abandoned and reverted to adjacent landowners. Short segments in Charles City have been reused as part of the Charley Western Trail.</p>
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