Edit post

Edit your reply below.

Post Body
Enter your post below.
Jeff -- The lake boat you toured was docked in the Kinnickinnic River at the Milwaukee Solvay Coke Co. facility. Solvay converted coal (mostly brought in by lake boat) into coke, and in the process made coal gas, ammonia, coal tar and other byproducts. The coal gas was sold to Milwaukee Gas Light Co., and continued to be produced even after natural gas pipelines reached Milwaukee in 1949. The plant produced both metalugical coke and foundry coke. I believe much of the coke (particularly that of the metalurgical variety) was shipped out by lake boat. The Solvay plant was also served by Milwaukee Road and C&NW -- their main lines intersected in the immediatwe vicinity of the plant. Solvay ceased production in 1983, and the plant now is completely gone. Fortunately, photos of the plant, before and during demolition, can be found on the web through a Google search.
Tags (Optional)
Tags are keywords that get attached to your post. They are used to categorize your submission and make it easier to search for. To add tags to your post type a tag into the box below and click the "Add Tag" button.
Add Tag

Update Reply

Login, or register today to interact in our online community, comment on articles, receive our newsletter, manage your account online and more!

Model Railroader Newsletter See all

Sign up for our FREE e-newsletter and get model railroad news in your inbox!