Box Car

In the early years of operation, RF&P railroads derived little revenue from freight service, as most goods were transported by river and then by wagon. After the Civil War, the railroad was joined with others to form a national system, and freight service increased dramatically because of its location along routes connecting to vibrant East Coast markets. In the 1880s, RF&P became an important link in transporting fruits and vegetables from the South to northern markets, using special ventilated cars to carry strawberries, melons, and vegetables from the Carolinas and vegetables and citrus fruit from Florida. In 1900, freight revenue exceeded passenger service revenue. Eventually, freight service expanded to include everything from farm implements and agricultural, forest, and mineral products to miscellaneous merchandise such as the automobile. In 1991, RF&P was sold to CSX Corporation, ending freight service under RF&P management.

Virginia · United States