This Day in Railroad History

March 20

1906
120th anniversary
FormationCanada

Formation of the Grand Trunk Pacific Railway

Grand Trunk Pacific Railway

Ottawa

The Grand Trunk Pacific Railway was incorporated on March 20, 1906, as part of Canada's transcontinental expansion, aiming to link the Atlantic to the Pacific and stimulate western settlement and resource extraction.

1883
143 years ago
OpeningFrance

Inauguration of the Orient Express Service

Compagnie Internationale des Wagons-Lits

Paris

On March 20, 1883, the luxurious Orient Express began its maiden voyage from Paris to Istanbul, revolutionizing long-distance rail travel with opulent amenities and fostering international connectivity across Europe.

1854
172 years ago
OpeningAustralia

Opening of the Geelong and Melbourne Railway

Geelong and Melbourne Railway

Melbourne

The first steam train in Australia began service on March 20, 1854, connecting Geelong and Melbourne, marking the start of rail transport in the country and boosting trade and settlement in Victoria.

1933
93 years ago
ConstructionUnited Kingdom

Extension of London's Piccadilly Line

London Underground

London

The London Underground's Piccadilly Line extended to Arnos Grove on March 20, 1933, enhancing suburban connectivity and showcasing innovative tube station designs by architect Charles Holden.

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