Rio Grande Southern railroad

1888, Otto Mears standing in front of Locomotive #100 of the Silverton Railroad. Otto built the Rio Grande Southern, to reach the mining districts of Telluride and Rico. It had to travel over two mountain passes on four percent grades. The line first opened for business in 1890. This is 3 foot (narrow gauge), and is presently the track used by the Durango Silverton Scenic Railroad. Mathews collection, Ellis donation, #93-1

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