UP Mud Creek Bridge (Faribault)

In 1900, the Burlington, Cedar Rapids and Northern Railway (BCR&N) sought to construct a new line between their existing system in Iowa and the Twin Cities in Minnesota.  The first 44 miles between Mason City, Iowa and Albert Lea, Minnesota would be constructed in 1900, with an additional 54 miles constructed between Albert Lea and Comus, Minnesota in 1901.  Between Comus and Rosemont, the BCR&N would use existing tracks owned by the Chicago, Milwaukee & St. Paul Railway (Milwaukee Road).  From Rosemont to Inver Grove Junction, an additional 11 miles of track would be constructed in 1901.  In 1903, the BCR&N was purchased by the Chicago, Rock Island & Pacific Railway (Rock Island).  The Rock Island operated this route as a mainline, and it formed the northern portion of the Kansas City-Des Moines-St. Paul "Spine Line".

Due to regular financial hardship, the maintenance on this line was often deferred.  In March 1980, the Rock Island ceased all operations, and its lines were abandoned or sold to other railroads.  The Chicago & North Western Railway (C&NW) and Soo Line both had interest in the Spine Line, with the C&NW eventually purchasing the route.  During 1982 and 1983, significant money was allocated for rebuilding the deteriorated route, and trains began using the route.  In 1995, C&NW was purchased by Union Pacific Railroad (UP).  Union Pacific continues to operate this route as the Albert Lea Subdivision.