Railroads in History chronicles 463 railroad companies which were actually operated in Michigan at one time or another.

There are about twice as many railroad companies which were authorized by the State of Michigan or incorporated under railroad and general corporation law. Many were "paper" railroads and were never built. Some were "construction railroads" which were built and immediately sold to other railroads.

This website section covers only railroads which were built and operated. "Paper" railroads where construction was never begun are not included.

For a comprehensive listing of all railroad companies - built or unbuilt, see the excellent two-volume set Michigan Railroad Lines, by Graydon Meints, available through Amazon books or other book sellers. These books are also available through public library exchange.