Historic Sites and Points of Interest in Siskiyou County
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20 February 2011
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Yreka Western Railroad
South Foothill Drive at East Center Street
Yreka
The marker reads:
In response to the decision of the Southern Pacific Company to bypass Yreka and run its mainline through Shasta Valley, the Yreka Railroad was built and commenced operations January 9, 1889.
In 1933 the railroad was incorporated as the Yreka Western Railroad. 1935 brought hard times which were overcome under the direction of O.G. Steele.
In 1986 the City of Yreka commenced the summer excursion train known as the Blue Goose and today Yreka Western continues to operate as a working railroad after over 100 years of service.
This plaque dedicated September 22, 1990
By the Humbug Chapter of E Clampus Vitus and the Siskiyou Historical Society
The Yreka Western Railroad's (YWR) famous No. 19 Baldwin steam locomotive may be changing hands soon in an ongoing saga that has left local residents doubtful that the historic railroad will ever operate again.
The YWR is considered by many Siskiyou County residents to be an invaluable piece of local history but over the past year, local residents have observed railroad track and cars being dismantled and sold for scrap while creditors fight over what remains.
Source: Siskiyou Daily News, 19 April 2013