San Diego had to fight to receive its first rail terminal and was finally able to accomplish this goal in 1870. Frank Kimball was the leader behind this movement and construction was begun in July of 1881. It was close to completion in September of 1882, but the “Big Four” railroad financiers, Charles Crocker, Collis Huntington, Mark Hopkins and Leland Stanford, prevented the line from joining the Southern Pacific Line.

San Diego wasn’t deterred and ran their line locally to Colton. However, several years later on November 26, 1885, the first transcontinental train was allowed to arrive in San Diego. This caused the city to grow and five independent railroad companies began to service the area.

Trolleys were put into heavy use for public transportation and rail travel thrived in the 1920s and 30s. However, when the automobile became affordable for everyday Americans, Trolleys fell out of favor and tracks were removed.

Railroads today are mainly used for freight travel and passenger lines such as Amtrak continue to bring travelers into the city. San Diego will never again have a need for the extensive rail lines utilized in the 1900s but, a revival for rail travel is in effect and many passengers still enjoy its benefits.