Ferrocarril Del Pacifico

Company History: FCP was formed in 1951 when Southern Pacific, fearing the changing political climate in Mexico would lead to the nationalization of their Southern Pacific of Mexico subsidiary, sold the line to the Mexican government. FCP ran from the Arizona border at Nogales south, not far from the coast to a connection with NdeM in the Guadalajara area. The line became known for moving produce on fast TOFC trains to American markets. They ran a popular passenger train from Nogales to Mexico City jointly with NdeM. In 1987, the government owned railroads of Mexico were combined and reorganized into a larger National Railways of Mexico (FNM.)

Successor/Parent History: Ferromex was launched in 1989 to take over the largest of the concessions from the privatization of FNM. This 5,375 mile line (between C&O and B&O in relative size,) has three main north-south routes: Mexicali and Nogales down along the Pacific Coast to Guadalajara and on to Mexico City; Ciudad Juarez (just across the border from El Paso) south to Mexico City; and Pedras Negras (across from Eagle Pass, TX) south to Mexico City. There is a major intersecting route from Ojinga (Presidio, TX) to the port of Topolobampo. Other braches connect to ports on both the Pacific and the Gulf of Mexico. The company is owned by mining giant Grupo Mexico (Union Pacific has significant holdings in that company.) In 2005, that company bought Ferrosur but it would be six years before the two would be allowed to merge. Many of their operations have been combined but as of this writing, Ferrosur continues to have a separate identity.

Brief History: Mexico is a country between the U.S. and Central America that's known for its Pacific and Gulf of Mexico beaches and its diverse landscape of mountains, deserts and jungles. Ancient ruins such as Teotihuacán and the Mayan city of Chichén Itzá are scattered throughout the country, as are Spanish colonial-era towns. In capital Mexico City, upscale shops, renowned museums and gourmet restaurants cater to modern life.