Wabash Cannon Ball (train)

The Wabash Cannon Ball was a passenger train operated by the Wabash Railroad in the United States from 1900 until 1971. It became legendary through a popular folk song of the same name, forever linking the railroad to American folklore.

The train's route varied over its history, but a prominent and frequently mentioned iteration ran from Detroit, Michigan, to St. Louis, Missouri. The song romanticizes the train as traveling all over the United States, but its actual service area was primarily in the Midwest. Over time, the route extended to include connections to other cities.

The Wabash Cannon Ball was known for its speed, comfort, and reliability, becoming a symbol of the golden age of passenger rail travel. It offered various amenities for its passengers, reflecting the standards of the time.

The train's name became synonymous with the Wabash Railroad itself, solidifying its place in American culture beyond its function as a transportation provider. While passenger rail service declined in the mid-20th century, the Wabash Cannon Ball continued operating until Amtrak took over most passenger rail services in 1971.