The common name for the New York, Chicago and St. Louis Railroad, a major historic freight route connecting Buffalo, Chicago, and St. Louis. The nickname originated from early boasts about its high construction standards and excellent financial backing, supposedly being built so well it could be plated in nickel. It became famous for running fast, high-priority freight trains behind powerful Berkshire steam locomotives.
Heard on the job
My grandfather hired out on the Nickel Plate Road right after the war.
Also heard as
- Nickel Plate