LSRC’s “Spirit of Pere Marquette” Locomotive: Rail Heritage & Innovation

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Introduction

Lake State Railway Co. (LSRC) has introduced a newly painted locomotive, Unit 6437, renamed “Spirit of Pere Marquette,” to honor its predecessor, the Pere Marquette Railway. The locomotive pays tribute to the original E7 locomotives, with the design influenced by drawings from LSRC’s supervisor of yard operations, Travis Vongrey.

Honoring Pere Marquette Railway

Tribute to the Past

The “Spirit of Pere Marquette” locomotive, Unit 6437, an ex-UPSD70M, was unveiled by Lake State Railway Co. (LSRC) last week. The renaming commemorates the Pere Marquette Railway, one of LSRC’s historical antecedents.

Design and Execution

The design for the locomotive was based on drawings by Travis Vongrey, a former conductor, engineer, and yardmaster, now the supervisor of yard operations at LSRC. Vongrey’s designs were provided to Southern Pride Equipment Painting of Sharpsburg, Georgia, for execution.

Executive Comments

LSRC CEO Mike Stickel stated, “Travis has created something really special that reflects the pride and satisfaction all our people share in shaping the future of rail transportation in Michigan, while staying mindful of our rich heritage. We’re all thrilled to see his design come to life as part of our modern fleet.”

Operations and Infrastructure

Operational Scope

LSRC manages 375 miles of track and operates with six interchange points. The short line’s operations include terminals in Plymouth, Flint, Midland, Bay City, Gaylord, and Alpena.

Annual Traffic

LSRC handles approximately 60,000 carloads each year.

Conclusion

Lake State Railway Co. (LSRC) has launched the “Spirit of Pere Marquette” locomotive as a tribute to the Pere Marquette Railway. The design was influenced by Travis Vongrey and executed by Southern Pride Equipment Painting. LSRC operates 375 miles of track and manages six interchange points, with terminals in multiple cities and an annual volume of approximately 60,000 carloads.

Company Summary

Lake State Railway Co. (LSRC): Operates 375 miles of track with six interchange points. Headquartered in Saginaw, LSRC manages terminals in Plymouth, Flint, Midland, Bay City, Gaylord, and Alpena, handling approximately 60,000 carloads annually.

Southern Pride Equipment Painting: A company based in Sharpsburg, Georgia, responsible for painting the “Spirit of Pere Marquette” locomotive.

Pere Marquette Railway: A historical antecedent of Lake State Railway Co.

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