A CN local crosses the Fox River via the former C&NW bridge in 'The Flats' at Appleton, WI on 9 Nov. '19. Local was headed for Kimberly and Combined Locks. The former MILW bridge, now sans rails, runs parallel a few feet to the left of the C&NW bridge. The MILW abandoned this stretch of track in 1981, portions of it were sold to the C&NW. Now just a short branch line, this stretch of rail is a remnant of the MLS&W main line which once ran from Milwaukee to Ashland. Some of the homes along W. Prospect Ave. can be seen atop the bluff in the background. Over the past several years, I have notice that some misinformed individuals erroneously refer to ‘The Flats’ as ‘Oneida Flats,’ or some other variation. However, the historic, industrial heart of Appleton is simply ‘The Flats.’ |