The Galena & Chicago Union Railroad (G&CU), despite its name, was a railroad connecting Chicago and Freeport, Illinois. Incorporated in 1836, the G&CU became the first railroad built to the west of Chicago.
History
The railroad was constructed starting in March 1848 and was completed in 1853.
The parent to the Chicago and Northwestern Railroad, which was organized in 1859, the G&CU consolidated with and operated under the name of the Chicago and North Western in 1864.
References
- examines the economic effects of the railroad (among other things).
