The Great Northern

Nicknamed the “Empire Builder” after its founder James Hill, the Great Northern dominated the Northwest from the 30s through the 40s. Hill built the railroad without any government funds, supporting the endeavor by helping to develop Glacier National Park, which in turn promoted travel on the train. The Great Northern was eventually sold and incorporated into other lines to form Burlington Northern. Says Smith, “My grandfather was a conductor on the Great Northern and he quit driving the family car when he was in his fifties, he just figured the railroad could take him every place he wanted to go.”